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Your fluffy BFF loves your undying attention and love, no doubt about that. But once in a while, it would be nice to spoil them with gifts that show appreciation for  their goofiness and support. Honestly, it’s actually a cute moment of bliss to see Lucky get excited over new toys.  

If you need the inspiration to shop for the special pooch in your life, or even to gift a dog-lover, this ultimate guide will assist you to pick the best. 

Here are 7 cool gifts you can give your dog this season… because you’re a cool parent:

1. Fluffy Blankets

One item we would recommend getting for your fur baby is a fluffy comfy blanket. Every dog likes to curl up in something comfy, so this should be at the top of your list. Make sure you get blankets that are machine washable because…they WILL get dirty. 

2. Smart Dog Collar

Gifting your dog a smart collar will help you monitor your dog’s activity. Some even come with the feature of allowing you to compare it with the other pets in the neighborhood. You can also track down his location through GPS technology and create geo-fences around specific Keep-Out Zones. Hence, you can get alerted when your pup leaves a ‘safe zone’.

3. Grooming Shampoo

Who wouldn’t like their fur looking all silky and shiny? We know your pup would. Treat him to a luxury shampoo and conditioner that not only keeps him clean but leaves him smelling like bursts of sunshine.

4. A Portrait 

Wouldn’t it be incredible to buy your pet a pretty nice portrait? You’re probably thinking that your pup doesn’t have an eye for art. However, it doesn’t have to be Rembrandt. There are a number of various options, and a pretty good idea could be a picture of a dog sipping tea or holding a cigar in a tuxedo. A pretty hilarious image, and fitting gift too!

5. Food Puzzles

Do you want a challenge for your smarty pants pup? Then, a food puzzle is a great gift item for him. Asides from it being fun, it also gives his brain the needed mental stimulation that aids proper behavior. 

The puzzle consists of multiple holding cups that you can place treats into. By nuzzling and pawing at the compartments, your dog can learn how to find and retrieve goodies. Hello, scavenging instincts!

6. Anxiety-Reducing Toys

Whenever your baby is feeling anxious—because of location changes, you’re going to work or loud noises—it’s only natural that you would want to ease his fear immediately. Several toys can self-warm and they mirror an actual human hug, giving your fur baby a sense of safety or being snuggled.

Another example of an anxiety-reducing material is a lickable mat. The continual process of licking a flavored surface releases hormones in your pup’s brain that cause him to relax. It also keeps their attention focused on the task; invariably reducing their stress level.

7. Personalized Pet Bowls

Get gorgeous ceramic bowls that can be customized with the name of your fur baby and designed to your taste. 

You’ve heard of dinosaurs going extinct; and even mammoths and elephants. But have you heard of dogs going extinct? Yeah, it happens!.

Before dogs became our fur babies that we dote on, paw and foot, they actually worked for us; doing basic tasks. You may be asking, how did they go extinct? Well, we have answers!

Centuries ago, as dogs developed with humans, they were mainly bred to perform various tasks and that was their sole purpose. Hence, if a dog was useful based on the ability they possess or need they fulfilled, they were in high demand. If that need shifted, the task they were made to perform became obsolete. And sadly, the dogs fizzled into extinction.

Although these breeds are extinct, we still see some descendants of these amazing creatures today.

Let’s have a look at some of these dog breeds.

1. Talbot

The dog was common in England during the Medieval periods, but was believed to be brought from Normandy, France, by William the Conqueror. Primarily hunting hounds, they were small or medium-sized in appearance. 

Around the 17th century, Talbots became a distinct breed, but didn’t hang around for long. During the 18th century, they were declared extinct. Most enthusiasts estimate that the reason for their extinction lies in the presence of more efficient hunting dogs. 

Historians believe that the Bloodhounds and Beagles are proud descendants of this breed. 

2. Dogo Cubano

The Dogo Cubano, also known as the Cuban Mastiff, proliferated in Cuba even though they weren’t natives. 

Their bodies were well built and robust. Plus, they possessed powerful legs and a keen sense of smell. They were used to protect livestock, great company for hunting and effective sentries too. 

 This breed was crossed with other breeds and eventually lost.

3. Paisley Terrier

The Paisley Terrier originates from Paisley, Scotland. They were small, with long, soft coats that were stunning and got them categorized as “fancy” pets. The dog served two primary purposes: to serve as a companion and as a show dog. 

However, because of their high maintenance and grooming-intensive procedures, its popularity declined (in the late 1800s). Its legacy, however, can still be seen today in other breeds such as the Yorkshire Terrier.

4. Moscow Water Dog

The Moscow Water Dog originated in Russia, where it was bred to serve as water rescue dogs after World War II. 

They mainly served the purpose of dragging sailors on to safe land from the water. 

Since they were bred in small numbers and incredibly rare, they became extinct in the 1980s.

5. Salish Wool Dog

Also known as Comox Dog, the Salish Wool dog was a small wooly white creature.

Their white ‘wool’ fur, rich in thickness and texture, was prized and sheared during early summer to make blankets and other textile products. 

Regardless of their great beginnings, the Salish Wool dog became extinct at the start of the 20th century. Its extinction was attributed to mainly crossbreeding—which made their line ‘impure’. 

Another reason why they went instinct was that sheep came along, and were a better source of wool. So, the Salish Wool Dog wasn’t much needed anymore. 

Have you thought of taking your pup out for a road trip? Or just ripping apart cardboard boxes? What about making a puzzle for them to solve? 

There are several benefits that these activities bring. They provide your furry friend with the easiest way to promote mental and physical states. It also helps enhance the bond that exists between you both. 

These activities aid your dog with socialization (as they encounter new places, people, and events). Another main advantage is the health benefits it gives your buddy. 

Whether you prefer activities that require low energy (or can be done indoors) or high energy that will leave you both panting, this list will give you ideas on memories you both can make to last a lifetime. 

1. Take A Tour Around The City

Pretend you’re a tourist for one day, and take a day to explore the city. You can plan different stops you would make, including little stops at dog-friendly stores that reward your pup with treats and a full water bowl.

2. Go Swimming 

Some dogs love the water. If your fur baby is like that, let him explore that part of the world. But, before that happens, ensure the water bodies—lake, swimming pools, or the beach—are pet-friendly. Either way, it’s always a great idea to bring along a life vest specialized for dogs. 

3. Take A Training Class

It is not unusual for your dog to bounce around with excess energy. Take him to a training class that allows full expression of his energy. There might even be a little competition that allows your pup to show off his skills. 

4. Teach Him A Trick

Every dog likes learning new things; regardless of age or type. Hence, it’s a great idea to teach new tricks that will impress not just you but your friends in the long run. 

The best part is that there are several videos online that could help you with the stunts. Don’t forget to give your dog a treat with each stunt he completes. 

5. Go Shopping 

Several dog-friendly stores allow your dog free reins in the store. Sometimes, you don’t need to leave your four-legged friend at home while you go shopping for surprises. Take him shopping and let him help in the little way he can—possibly barking his consent. 

6. Netflix and Chill

Relax with your canine buddy on the couch or in your bedroom. Turn on a dog-friendly movie—The Lady and The Tramp, 101 Dalmatians, or Marley and Me—and snuggle together with treats within reach. 

7. Play Outdoors

It doesn’t matter if it’s winter, summer, or autumn, there’s always something fun to engage in outside. Run through the snow or play catch with snowballs (in winter), jump over piles of leaves (in autumn), or play in the sprinklers during the hot summer. It may not seem like much, but these simple activities make the happiest memories. 

8. Throw Your Pup A Party

And who said pups can’t have parties? That’s right, no one. You probably know some friends who also have dogs as pets. Invite them over for a party during his birthday or a national holiday. 

As the loving pet parent that you are, you’ve probably done everything possible to keep your dog in prime health. You provide him with the most healthy foods, make sure he exercises daily, and even book appointments with the vet for preventative care. 

That’s all great, now, up next is his teeth! Pups cannot get cavities like us, but they can have other dental issues like tartar, plaque build-up; and in the long run, gingivitis.

Beyond bad breath and yellow teeth, these dental problems can become a big deal if they’re not taken care of early. So, to avoid them altogether, here are 4 tips that would surely help: 

1. Brushing Regularly

In puppy parenting, brushing your pup’s teeth is an experience that might take a while to get used to; for both you and your pup. But, it’s the easiest and most cost-effective way for you to ensure oral care right at home. It’s advisable to brush your dog’s teeth daily to prevent the build-up of bacteria, plaque, or tartar. To do this:

• Get a soft-toothed brush or a finger brush and special toothpaste formulated for dogs. Always use pet-formulated toothpaste! Why? Human toothpaste contains substances that are not great for dogs.

• If brushing directly proves to be a battle or you simply want to switch up dental care routines, you can make use of dental wipes. When rubbed against your puppy’s teeth, it helps get rid of plaque, and remaining food particles.

• Another alternative is using dog mouthwash. When diluted into water bowls, the mouthwash helps in killing germs and reducing plaque. Please, do not use human mouthwash.

You can find all of these products at your local pet supply store or veterinary office.

2. Feed Appropriate Foods

To make oral care even easier, you can grab some treats that are great for cleanliness. Dry foods are generally better than soft foods. The crunchy treats help scrape away tartar as they feed. Soft foods, however, stick to the teeth and cause faster build-up. Ask your dog’s veterinarian  for a diet plan if you’re at a loss at which way to go.

3. Use Chew Toys And Bones For Cleaning

There are several synthetic chew toys and bones specifically designed to keep your dog’s teeth and gums clean. The constant gnawing at these toys removes plaque and causes them to secrete saliva that protects their tooth.

However, avoid giving your pup hard nylon toys or natural bones. For one, they may chew so hard that it comes apart and lodges or obstructs. Secondly, your pup’s dentition may not be sufficiently developed and hard bones can cause damage. 

4. Schedule Checkups And Cleanings

Even with your finest efforts to keep your fur baby’s oral health top-notch, it’s unlikely that you give a thorough cleaning the way a vet would. 

Take your dog to the vet (six months intervals) to carry out routine checkups, teeth polishing, and gum line cleaning.

However, if you notice any of the following symptoms below, we recommend scheduling a vet visit versus waiting for your bi-annual dental appointment.

• Has terrible breath.
• Produces excessive drools.
• Extra teeth (has a lot of teeth growing in a small space).
• White, swollen, or bleeding gums.
• Broken, discolored (brown, gray, or black) or crooked teeth.
• Is sensitive to touch around the face.
• Exhibit a change in eating and chewing habits.

Bringing a pet home for the first time is super exciting but at the same time, you could feel overwhelmed. Your lifestyle (and your family) is about to take a new turn; for the better. 

You might be thinking about the new responsibilities, but it really wouldn’t feel that way. If anything, they are very enjoyable and you would start looking forward to them in no time. 

Now, to make the whole transition process very easy for you and your pup here are some tips that you can follow: 

1. Prepare Supplies Beforehand

One of the key ways of eliminating any stress with having a new pet is getting many of the required supplies beforehand. 

Leashes, collars, litter boxes, identification tags, water and food bowls, toys, treats, and food are all necessities when bringing your pet dog home.   

If you know the food your dog has been eating, it’s best to get the exact same one for your pup. Introducing new foods right away, together with the change in environment, can stress your pet and disrupt his digestive system.

2. Puppy-proof Your Home

Imagine your puppy as a toddler in the house. And just like toddlers, they have a knack for getting into places they shouldn’t or gobbling up things unsafe for their health. 

To this end, you need to gate off dangerous areas, remove wires from the way, and secure decorations firmly. Puppies are always on a treasure hunt, so ensure everything that could hurt them is taken out of their little paws’ reach.

3. Set Up A Routine

When you just get a pet, it is best to establish a consistent routine right away to allow peaceful transitions. Create a routine or playtime, bedtime, and mealtime. Plan for walks, extra trips to parks, and even bathroom breaks.

When planning the routine, note that pups require more exercise and bathroom breaks more often than adult dogs.

4. Find a Good Vet

Getting a good vet will make adapting to your pet almost seamless. A good vet will educate you about behavior patterns, your dog’s health, and everything you need to know about owning a dog. 

Schedule an appointment during the first week you get your pet; and as time progresses, annual and semi-annual appointments should be regular.

5. Start House-training Sessions

As soon as you get your new pet, it is great to establish rules through training sessions. Consistency with training sessions will help them understand what you want and build confidence. It’s so difficult to erase a bad habit when it’s established. 

6. Make Her Comfortable 

Just as kids love having playrooms and places to rest, pups also appreciate places to relax. Set up a section for your pup to just chill.

7. Be Patient

You just have a new family member coming into your house. You need to be patient with your pup and reduce any form of excessive expectations. Life is going to be different, so give yourself time to adjust. Soon enough, you’ll find out that you’ve gotten a loyal friend for life.