Homemade Holiday Gifts for Dogs

Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Choosing gifts for loved ones can be a bit tricky. Luckily, there are lots of great options for things you can get your dog. Of course, if you are a crafty type, or are working on a tight budget, you can also make Fido’s presents. Read on as a local Oconomowoc, WI vet lists some great DIY gifts for Fido.

If you like to sew, why not make your pup a doggy sweater or jacket? You can repurpose a child’s sweater, or get a pattern online and start from scratch.

Snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical deicing agents can all do a number on your pet’s sensitive paw pads. Salt and chemicals are particularly problematic, as they can make Fido sick if he licks his paws after going outside. Look online for cute and easy dog bootie patterns.

One of the best things you can do for your canine pal is to make sure that he has a comfy doggy bed to snuggle up in on cold nights. For smaller dogs, you can turn a hard-shell suitcase or hatbox into a bed. Another cute idea is to repurpose an end table. For the kind with doors, remove the doors, and put bedding inside. For bigger pooches, turn over an end table with legs, or a coffee table, and put a pet bed in that. Or, upcycle an old tractor tire.

There are lots of cute doggy toys you can make yourself. A rope toy is one easy option. Just cut up an old tee shirt or pillowcase into long, thin strips and braid them together. Use two or three fabrics of contrasting colors to make it look nice. Braid the braids together, and then tie it all off in a big knot. Instant tail wags!

Treats will always get Fido’s cute tail going! Look online for recipes that use dog-safe ingredients. Some good ones are sodium-free broth; plain yogurt; ripe bananas; peanut butter; eggs; cheese; bacon bits; wheat-germ oil; and whole-wheat flour. Just be sure never to give your pup unsafe foods, such as garlic, onions, or scallions; chocolate; alcohol; pitted fruit; or xylitol. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your Oconomowoc, WI pet hospital, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!