If you're looking for the perfect gift for a new dog owner, look no further. Regardless of the new pets' age, breed, or how house trained they are, some essentials can make great gifts to welcome this new family member. Whether the owners have owned dogs before or are embarking on the journey of owning their first pet, each experience is different. There is always a lot to learn about each animal. As dogs have such different personalities, likes and dislikes, and behaviour, even if you've owned dogs your entire life, you will always find something new to discover with each best friend you bring into your home. Some great gift ideas are:
If you're looking for the perfect gift for a new dog owner, look no further. Regardless of the new pets' age, breed, or how house trained they are, some essentials can make great gifts to welcome this new family member. Whether the owners have owned dogs before or are embarking on the journey of owning their first pet, each experience is different. There is always a lot to learn about each animal. As dogs have such different personalities, likes and dislikes, and behaviour, even if you've owned dogs your entire life, you will always find something new to discover with each best friend you bring into your home. Some great gift ideas are:
Personalised food and water bowls
While a new furry friend definitely takes over your home, especially when they are a nosey puppy, you might still want to ensure your home decor is consistent. Getting personalised food and water dishes for the new arrival is a great way to buy something special that you know will be well used.
Beds/cushions and blankets
Having a lovely bed can be a great way to help dogs settle in and really feel cosy. While they may not always use the beds we lovingly pick out for them, we know that giving them options of where to sleep is essential, so don't be too disheartened if the bed is not immediately used.
Toys
You only need to step into a pet shop to see just how many different dog toys are available. When you're buying toys as a gift for someone else's pet, try to avoid anything too noisy, so your gift doesn't become annoying. Opt for classic tennis balls, rope toys that are great for playing tug of war, or a frisbee. These are all great options for making walks much more fun.
Training aids
New dogs might need some help with their training, and it's a vital part of dog ownership. A longstanding and effective way to conduct obedience training is by using whistles for dogs. These come in various tones and pitches, which impacts their effectiveness depending on how they are used, so make sure the new owner reads up on the ways to use a dog whistle to make the most of the tool.
Treat subscription boxes
There are so many options online for dog treat subscription boxes, lots of which also include toys. Make sure you're buying any treats from a well established or well-reviewed seller so you can make sure the safety of the animal is taken into account. Some treats can be choking hazards, and some dogs can have particular preferences, so make sure you discuss this with the owner before buying so you can give a gift that the new dog will enjoy.
Grooming vouchers
Getting a new dog comes with many new expenses, so buying a voucher for one of those expenses can be a very welcome gift. Find a local groomer with great reviews online (even better if you can find reviews of someone with the same dog breed) and then see if they offer gift vouchers. If they don't provide physical gift vouchers, you can always ask to pay for a few grooming sessions in advance and give the new owners' details for their records.
If the above options might not be something you are entirely sure about, a small selection of items that the pet or owner will use is a great gift alternative. Almost along the lines of a new owner hamper, you can include waste bags for those exciting first walks, dental hygiene chews, books about the specific breed, and even a voucher for a local pet shop so they can choose their items if you are unsure.
Our pets are family members, and it's great when our loved ones recognise that and embrace the new addition. However you choose to give a gift to the latest addition to your friend's or family member's life, it will surely be appreciated. If the dog is at a house that you visit regularly, it can help them feel much more comfortable around you if they associate you with something positive, so make sure you spend lots of time giving them attention and care.
Resources:
Dog Whistle - Buy Me a Coffee
Dog Whistle Lanyard - Glitch
Sheepdog Whistles - TechPlanet
Dog Clicker - Zoho Writer