Gifts for Old Dogs That’ll Bring Out the Puppy in Them

You and your senior dog have been best friends for a number of years. Now that he’s getting older, you’re starting to think about what dog gifts for old dogs would be perfect for him for the holidays this year. After all, he’s not a young pup anymore, and you have to make sure you’re meeting his needs.

Here are some gift ideas for older dogs that your dog, or a fellow dog mom or dog dad’s senior pup, is sure to love.

A New Dog Bed

Naturally, your senior dog loves to rest more and snuggle up in bed. However, it seems to be getting a little ratty lately. You can get him a new dog bed for the holidays that he’ll feel nice and cozy sleeping in. 

Check out Best Friends By Sheri’s Cozy Ilan Cuddle Cup Dog Bed for large dogs or the Donut Shag Dog Bed for small dogs like pugs. These beds support your senior dog’s aging joints, have a calming, self-warming effect, and provide better sleep – which is what your aging dog needs right now.

Best Gift for Old Dogs: Toys

Dog owners know that their best friends always enjoy a new dog toy — no matter their age! When it comes to senior dogs, look for something that will keep their teeth healthy, since periodontal disease can affect dogs of any age. If your dog has bleeding gums, lumps in his mouth, or he’s chewing on one side of his mouth, he may already have this disease. Try something like an Orka Bone dog toy, which offers your dog entertainment and dispenses his favorite treats. This chew toy will also help reduce soft tartar and massage his gums.

Another option your senior dog is sure to love is the Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy. This toy will mentally stimulate your pup, keep him entertained, redirect his destructive behavior, and reward him with treats like kibble or peanut butter.

For a simple toy, get your doggy a classic tennis ball with squeakers for the holidays. This will keep him active, which he needs to be, even in his old age. If he’s not getting in enough playtime, he could become overweight and suffer from various health issues.

Dog toys make great gifts for the holidays because they not only give your dog something to do but can also help with separation anxiety and boredom. Put the toys in an accessible place where your dog can reach them even when you aren’t home.

Dog Treats

The best dog treats for older dogs are ones that are easy to chew if he has issues with his teeth, as well as ones that are free of fillers and preservatives, will contribute to his skin and coat health, and are made with natural ingredients. Sweet potato chews or fries from Wholesome Pride are made with only one ingredient with zero fillers. Dog lovers can find different options on Amazon and then hide the treats in a toy to make their pup work for them. 

Dog Food

Now that you have an old dog, it’s time to get him the right food for his needs. Your pooch should be eating senior-formulated food that will keep him healthy well into old age. 

When you should start feeding your dog senior dog food depends on what kind of breed he is. For instance, if he’s a Great Dane, he’s considered a senior at age six, but if he’s a miniature poodle, he’s not a senior until he’s 10 years old. 

As you transition from adult food to senior kibble during the holidays, do it slowly so that your dog can get used to his new grub. Don’t make the switch all at once. You should ask your vet about your dog’s caloric needs based on his weight and activity level, and then buy a high-quality, low-calorie food if that’s what your dog needs. Also, ask your vet if you can switch off between wet and dry foods, since your dog may like both.

A Dog Bowl

Put the dog food in a new dog bowl for your pooch this holiday season. Choose a sturdy slow feeder or bowl made of stainless steel, since it won’t break or crack if it’s dropped and it’ll be easy to clean. You can even put it in the dishwasher.

A ceramic bowl can get cracked and become unsafe for use, and plastic is tricky to clean once it accumulates deep scratches. Additionally, if plastic is scratched, harmful bacteria can gather in it and make your dog sick. Outward Hound slow feeders are top-rack dishwasher safe and made from high-quality, food-safe material that’s BPA, PVC & phthalate-free.

If your senior dog has trouble with his joints, then you can put the dog bowls in an elevated dog bowl feeder. It’ll be easier for him to access his food and water.

A Dog Collar

Want your senior dog to look stylish for the holidays and beyond, but isn’t a bandana? Then a new dog collar will make the perfect gift. Find one that is comfortable, doesn’t slip off, and is machine washable so that you can keep it clean. 

You can find all sorts of collars depending on your dog’s needs. For example, if your dog likes going outside in the yard at night, you can get him a glow-in-the-dark collar so you can easily spot him. If you find that your dog’s tags get scratched up easily, you can purchase a collar that has your dog’s name and your phone number on it. If your dog has sensitive skin, then you can purchase him a no rub, hypoallergenic collar.

A Pet Carrier

If you’re planning on traveling with your dog, then a good holiday gift would be a new pet carrier. You could get him a dog crate that he could easily move around in or if he’s a small dog, a carrier that you can hold or strap around your body. These are especially convenient for small dog breeds that have trouble getting around with old age.

Pet owners traveling on airplanes should make sure they buy an airline-approved pet carrier.

Getting an Older Dog a Great Gift

Another thoughtful gift idea for a fellow dog lover with an elderly pup is a pet portrait. You could offer to pay for a photoshoot or get one of those digital ones on Etsy.

With this gift guide, your pup is sure to have a fun holiday, no matter how old he is. He will be sure to enjoy his presents all season long, and likely for years to come. You can find all these gifts and more on our website, Chewy, Amazon, or your local independent pet store.

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