Best Gifts for Dog Lovers 2025
The holidays are a time for gratitude, connection, and celebrating the ones who mean the most to us, and for many families, dogs are very much a part of that circle. Whether it’s cozy nights at home by the fire, winter walks, or wrapping an extra gift just for them, it’s always nice to do a little something extra for your pup during the holiday season.
To help you give your canine companion the best this year, the team at Boots & Paws has put together this list of their favorite dog essentials — trusted products they use for their own dogs and many that are included in our Boots & Paws companion dog care packages.
Dog Food & Care
Proper nutrition is essential for growing companion dogs. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Large Breed Puppy Food (Chicken & Rice Formula) supports healthy development for the breeds we most often place, including Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and Goldadors.
For adult companion dogs, we rely on Purina Pro Plan High Protein Adult Dog Food with Probiotics (Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula) to support digestion, muscle health, and overall wellness.
Pumpkin & Cranberry Digestive Support for Dogs
Some dogs experience sensitive stomachs, especially during schedule or diet changes common around the holidays. A pumpkin-based digestive supplement helps promote gut health and regularity and is safe for cats as well.
Stainless Steel Dog and Cat Bowls
Stainless steel bowls are good for pet food & water because they’re durable and easily cleaned — dishwasher safe, don’t retain bacteria, and won't chip or break.
Licking mats are a popular dog gift for 2025. They encourage slower eating, improve digestion, and provide calming mental stimulation. Simply spread peanut butter, yogurt, cream cheese, or wet food onto the silicone mat and freeze for longer-lasting engagement. They’re dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
The KONG Classic Dog Toy is a staple for enrichment, play, and feeding. Made from durable rubber and dishwasher safe, it can be used for fetch or as a food puzzle to extend mealtimes. Freezing KONGs with kibble, wet food, pumpkin, or peanut butter is an easy way to create long-lasting meals and snacks.
Deshedding Brush for Dogs and Cats
Regular brushing keeps coats healthy and reduces shedding, but it also creates meaningful bonding time. Grooming sessions help strengthen the relationship between companion dogs and their guardians.
Dog Beds & Home Essentials
Kuranda Chew-Resistant Dog Bed
This elevated, chew-resistant dog bed supports dogs up to 100 lbs and is ideal for dogs who love to chew. Its durable design often helps redirect chewing behavior toward appropriate toys. Best of all, it’s made right here in the USA.
A comfortable crate bed helps dogs feel safe and relaxed, especially during training or transitions. It supports positive crate associations, potty training, and long-term comfort at home.
Dog Walking & Travel Gear
Reflective dog collars help keep companion dogs visible during evening walks and low-light conditions by reflecting headlights and ambient light.
If you’re looking for something with a little extra function, you could use this tactical military dog collar, which comes with a handle for dog training.
Dog Harness for Training and Walking
Voyager Dog Harnesses distribute pressure evenly across the chest and help discourage pulling without discomfort. With both front and back leash attachment points, they’re great for training walks and everyday outings.
The tactical dog leash is made with heavy-duty mesh that makes long walks or runs with your dog more enjoyable, thanks to its shock-absorbing properties. The leash also features reflective tape, handles, and can clip into your car to provide your pup with a seatbelt when you’re out for a drive.
These TSA-approved pet carriers feature breathable mesh panels and multiple entry points, making holiday travel easier for small dogs and cats.
Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier
Designed for pets up to 22 lbs, this lightweight carrier offers mesh ventilation on all sides and multiple zippered openings—ideal for car rides, vet visits, and short trips.
Best Dog Toys For the Holidays
The holidays wouldn’t be complete without a little fun. These dog toys and treats are favorites among the companion dogs in our extended Guardian Revival community and make excellent stocking stuffers.
Cactus Surprise: Interactive Treat Dispenser
The cactus-shaped treat dispenser encourages problem-solving and mental stimulation—best for small to medium dogs.
Durable squeaky toys designed for puppies, large dogs, and enthusiastic chewers.
Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
For those with dogs who chew a bit harder than the average pup, these green alligator-shaped chew toys made from nylon and rubber will save you and your furniture from even the most aggressive chewers.
Long-lasting and tougher than real bones, Benebone chew toys are flavored with real bacon and designed for easy gripping.
Best Dog Treats 2025
A classic crunchy dog treat with a meaty flavor that helps reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath
Rachael Ray Nutrish Soup Bones
Chewy dog treats made with real meat and vegetables, offering the taste dogs love with a tender center.
Blue Buffalo Nudges Jerky Cuts
Slow-dried chicken jerky dog treats made with natural protein to help support bone and joint health.
Milo's Kitchen Homestyle Dog Treats
Made with beef sausage slices and rice, these treats are suitable for dogs of all sizes and perfect for training or everyday rewards.
Did you find anything you liked? Or notice that we missed a great gift for dogs?
Let us know! Send a message or tag us on Instagram @bootsnpawsgr
Boots & Paws
Boots & Paws provides free companion dogs to veterans & first responders. Dog ownership provides therapeutic benefits, including reducing stress & anxiety, easing depression & loneliness, and encouraging regular exercise.
Companion dogs are more than just pets — they ultimately help both our guardians and the whole family.
As companions, these dogs are designed to integrate with the entire household, helping everyone establish better routines and experience the therapeutic benefits of dog ownership.
Dog ownership provides therapeutic benefits, including reducing stress & anxiety, easing depression & loneliness, and encouraging regular exercise.
Our guardians are (active, former, and retired) Military, Veterans, Reserves, National Guard, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, Dispatchers, Corrections, and Federal Agents.
About Guardian Revival
Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health & well-being of military, veterans, and first responders — our guardians — and their families, at no cost to them.
Our Programs
Peer Services | Individual & group peer support for guardians by guardians
Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program of Putnam County | Providing events, information, and resources for veterans
Another Summit | Outdoor adventures — walking, hiking, backpacking, paddling, and fly fishing
Boots & Paws | Providing dogs for the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship
Encore | Opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share music
RISE | Wellness workships, retreats, & resources for guardians
