My overly indulged pug appears to always know when I place his perfectly wrapped gifts under the Christmas tree. Here is the first of two holiday gift guides for dogs with personally selected gift-giving ideas, tested by my pug, reviewed by me, and approved by both of us.
Let's start with the Super Shammy by Soggy Dog. There isn't a dog owner out there who won't appreciate this ultra-soft and durable microfiber chenille dog towel (19.99). When Fido comes in with muddy paws or soaked after a walk in the rain, this essential, must-have product soaks up water and dirt like a sponge. It absorbs up to seven times it's weight in water and is five times more absorbent than a regular cotton towel. It's ideal for bath time, too; Fido will be dried off in a snap with the hand pockets which allow for easy drying. Simply throw the 32x14" shammy in the wash and dry on low. Keep one in your mud room and another in your car for beach walks. Other gift ideas include Soggy Dog's doormats, slop mats and super snoozer. (Free shipping in USA with a $100.00 purchase/Made in China)
The Super Shammy-Photo credit: www.soggydogdoormat.com
The Metropolitan bunk bed from Lazybonezz is a splurge gift item for that special someone who has a duo-dog household ($499.99). With a sleek and contemporary design, the super sturdy bunk bed is geared toward toy breeds weighing in at 30 lbs or less (for each level). The wood and chrome-accented bunk bed is easy breezy to assemble with just two screws (included). Three steps access the top level and two pillows are covered in removable and washable envelope-style zebra print fleece cases (Machine washable, dry low). Whether an apartment or house, this chic liliputian bed belongs in any room--choose a color and print to coordinate with your home décor. And if you're looking for a single bed, try the Madison ($399.99). Both Metropolitan and Madison style beds are available in Ebony Wood with zebra & silver-grey cushion covers, Espresso Wood with giraffe & sand covers, and splashy Fire Red Wood with zebra & black covers. Purchase at Gracious Home in NYC, Front Gate, Bed Bath & Beyond and Amazon. (Made in China)
The Metropolitan-Photo Credit: Lazybonezz.com
2 Hounds Design is based in Monroe, NC where owner, Alisha Navarro, designs custom dog collars and leashes. A purveyor of Swiss velvet, Loation silk, French jacquard ribbon and Asian silk brocades, Navarro creatively incorporates each textile in her dog accessory line. The USA-made collars are available lined with super soft cuddle satin and outfitted with brass & stainless steel Weinerlock hardware. The comfortable and creative designs range in size from x-small to x-large and prices range between $29.99 and 35.99. Navarro also specializes in Martingale collars for Greyhounds, Whippets, and Italian Greyhounds. For the holidays, a touch of green or red velvet luxury wrapped around Fido's neck will make the perfect gift. Order online using coupon code Deck13 for 10% off between now and 12/02/13.
Velvet Collars available in a variety of colors-Photo Credit: www.2houndsdesign.com
Matching Teal Plaid Collar & Leash-Photo Credit: 2houndsdesign.com
Pink Lotus Collar-Photo Credit: 2houndsdesign.com
Known for their durable cotton duck dungarees, Carhartt has added a durable oversized dog bed to their line of tried and true products.This super compfy and long-lasting bed has a heavenly padded interior with an exterior made from classic 12-ounce 100% cotton canvas. The 28x36 inch bed is available in brown duck with an optional monogram. The interior cushion is removable through a brass zipper closure with flap. Suitable for small and medium size breeds, this homey bed is not only relaxing but will endure daily wear and tear. Try pop-out Kelly green for the monogram. Plain Bed $52.99/ Personalized $74.95.
Embroidered Carhartt Bed-Photo Credit: www.barebonesworkwear.com
Plain Carhartt Bed-Photo Credit: www.barebonesworker.com