Best gifts for dogs – affordable toys, harnesses, treats and more

Whether you're shopping for your own dog or looking to treat another pooch, our list of handpicked products will help you spend wisely.

To build our shopping list, we consulted Which? staff members who are loving dog owners.

Keep scrolling for access to our first-hand recommendations, which include some tail-wagging treats that won't break the bank.

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Furviking – for dealing with stubborn pet hair

What is it? A mini but mighty tool used to remove dog hair clinging to surfaces in your home.

• We like: Easy to use, works on a variety of surfaces
• Watch out for: You have to pick up the pet hair by hand or vacuum, so it can get tiring after a while

The Furviking is a pet hair removal tool comprised of a shaped piece of rubber secured between plastic strips. As you drag the tool across a surface – such as a fur-covered cushion – pet hair will loosen and clump together, making it easier to pick up by hand or banish with a vacuum cleaner.

Due to its small size, the tool can be conveniently stored in your car's glove box or tucked away in a bag. We think it's a great addition to any dog owner's cleaning arsenal.

Why we chose it:

'As a husky owner, I'm used to dealing with clouds of pet hair dancing across my house. In my experience, the Furviking is brilliant at removing fur that's stuck in the carpet, on the stairs or on the sofa. It's easy to use and makes a difference.

'I've tried a couple of pet hair removal tools over the years, and this is still my favourite. I also use it to tidy the boot of my car – so I can open the window without risk of a furnado.'

Tom Morgan (owner of Luna the husky)

Keep your home fur-free with our expert guide to the best vacuum cleaners.

Dog Paw Cleaner – for mucky paw pads

What is it? A tube-shaped tool for removing mud from an adventurous pup's paws.

• We like: Affordable, easy to use, comes in a range of sizes
• Watch out for: Some dogs might not enjoy the sensation

This budget-priced dog paw cleaner might be worth a closer look if you're tired of your pet excitedly dragging mud across your home. To use it, you pour water into the tube, gently place your dog's paw in the cup and rotate the washer so the silicone brushes can get to work.

The cleaner comes in three sizes and is bundled with some absorbent towels – we suspect you already have a couple, but it couldn't hurt to have more.

Why we chose it:

'This tool has saved our white carpets from muddy paws. It's really easy to use and ensures your dog doesn't leave behind a trail of dirt as they zoom through the house.

It comes in lots of sizes, so you can get one that's big enough for larger breeds. There are lots of dog paw cleaners available online, but my frantic Frenchie and I recommend this one.'

Ruby Gordon (owner of Hugo the French bulldog)

LickiMat Buddy – for boredom and anxiety relief

What is it? A textured rubber mat that you can rub wet food against to keep dogs busy.

• We like: Affordable, keeps dogs busy for long periods, dishwasher-safe
• Watch out for: The mat might slide around on some surfaces

The Lickimat is designed to reduce anxiety and destructive behaviour in dogs by calming them down for long periods. As it encourages your pet to take their time when snacking, it could also go some way to reducing bloating.

You can spread the surface of the feeder with treats such as peanut butter, banana or wet dog food. It's made from a chew-resistant, non-slip rubber that should stop it from whizzing across the kitchen floor.

Why we chose it:

'We bought a LickiMat for our very active cocker spaniel – it keeps him entertained, and I read that licking is calming for dogs.

'Our dog loves it, and it keeps him occupied for ages.'

Poppy Gaunt (owner of Wally the cocker spaniel)

Kong Jumbler – for dogs that need a long-lasting chew toy

What is it? A squeaky rubber ball with a smaller internal tennis ball.

• We like: Durable design, popular with our doggy testers
• Watch out for: You might not appreciate the squeaking sound

This dog toy comes in a range of colours and has a built-in handle to help you chuck it across the garden. Its shape will also help your excitable pup run the toy right back to your feet.

The Kong Jumbler is suitable for medium-sized and large breeds.

Why we chose it:

'My dogs were trial testers for the indestructible dog toys experiment that Which? ran a couple of years ago. At the time, the Kong Jumbler didn’t do well with my two.

'However, as time has gone on, the Kong has really lasted. My two love to fight with it when we throw it for them and eventually chewed off one of the handles. Mr. Darcy loves it as his post-dinner treat. We've just bought them a new one after two years, and we've never bought a dog toy for the second time before.'

Daniella Delaney Mendes (owner of Mr Darcy and Lizzy the Boston terriers)

Indestructible dog toys – we let four excitable dogs loose with eight dog toys that promised to be tough to break.

PitPat Dog GPS Tracker – for updates on your dog's location

What is it? Clips to your dog's collar and sends information to your smartphone.

• We like: No monthly fee, waterproof design, feature-packed app
• Watch out for: Pricier than the other picks in our gift guide

The PitPat is a dog-wearable that pairs with your phone (iOS or Android) to provide up-to-date details on your pet. From your mobile, you can track your furry friend's whereabouts using an overhead map or a pointing arrow, plus monitor their calories burned, weight and diet.

To see where your dog has wandered off to, both your phone and your PitPat GPS must have mobile coverage. The PitPat website has a coverage checker page.

Why we chose it:

'I have a small Chihuahua who was chased in our local park and subsequently bolted in fear. Our pup made it home but could have easily wandered into the wooded area next to the park.

'This tracker has GPS and activity tracking for our dog so, when we have him off-lead in the future, we can find him if he were to disappear. We chose this tracker as it doesn't charge you for a monthly subscription.'

Ginny Purcell (owner of Bandit the Chihuahua)

Glandex Fibre Supplements – for dealing with scooting

What is it? A pack of fibre supplements formulated to support healthy anal glands.

• We like: 100% natural ingredients, supports healthy bowels 
• Watch out for: Cost will rise if you need to buy multiple packs

Having to deal with a scooting dog is no fun, so consider these anal gland supplements from Vetnique Labs. According to the brand, the tablets promote a natural emptying of your dog's anal glands by supporting digestive health.

Each chew is packed with ingredients to boost your pup's health, including probiotics, fibre from pumpkin seeds and omegas. When used consistently, they can potentially prevent your pooch from dragging its bottom along the ground due to discomfort.

Why we chose it:

'While it might not be the most glamorous gift, these anal gland treats have given our dog fewer visits to the vet, and he's now scooting less.'

Faith Strickland (owner of Charlie the dachshund)

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No-tip dog bowl – for avoiding soaked floors

What is it? A bowl with a rubber base.

• We like: Affordable, prevents damage to hardwood floors
• Watch out for: Determined doggies could still knock these over – try wall-mounted bowls

This rust-resistant, dishwasher-safe dog bowl has a rubber base to prevent it sliding across the floor while your dog eats or drinks. Plus, it should help protect bare and hardwood floors from damage.

The pack we've highlighted comes with two bowls that hold up to 1kg.

Why we chose it:

'If your dog thinks picking up their bowl and playing chase or tipping the contents on the floor is a great game, these bowls will save you from having to keep cleaning up after them.

'When my dog was a puppy, she loved knocking over her bowls and throwing food and water everywhere. These bowls were (and still are) a big help.'

Fran Roberts-Thornton (owner of Elvira the labrador)

Animology fox poo shampoo – for smelly dogs

What is it? A 'deep-cleaning' shampoo to remove bad odours.

• We like: Affordable, suitable for all breeds
• Watch out for: You might need to wash particularly mucky pups more than once

This dog-friendly shampoo helps you deal with dogs that love to roll around in stinky spots. All you need to do to banish the eye-watering stench of fox poo is wet your pet's coat, apply the shampoo and massage the mixture into their coat.

The Animology formula includes a built-in conditioner and is designed to remove grime without stripping your dog's coat of its essential oils.

Why we chose it:

'Despite its name, this is not a poo-scented shampoo. If your pet can’t resist rolling in fox poop, this pong-busting shampoo is a grooming must-have – just one quick wash and the stubborn stench is gone.

'I’ve tried a few different shampoos, and this is the only one that eliminates the pungent smell rather than masks it with perfume. Plus, it has a fresh fragrance that lasts at least until her next walk.'

Jade Harding (owner of Peggy the whippet)

Wrendale Designs bag – for carrying your essentials

What is it? A doggy-decorated satchel.

• We like: Wipe-clean materials, adjustable strap
• Watch out for: You might prefer a bigger bag or one that goes around your waist

Packing treats, waste bags and keys into this pouch before you set out will save you from filling up your pockets. It also keeps both hands free, which is good news if you have a larger dog that tends to pull.

This 'durable' bag features an all-over dog print and has an adjustable strap, plus a zipped pocket on the front. Inside, there's a wipeable lining so you can clean the bag after a muddy winter walk.

Why we chose it:

'We bought this dog walking bag for our in-laws, who have a cockapoo.

'It's wipeable, so can be cleaned after muddy walks. The bag also has pockets and clips for keeping essentials, like poo bags, close at hand. The design is cute, too!'

Steph Kipling (also owner of Milly the cockapoo)

Equafleece dog suit – for chilly winters

What is it? A rainproof, washable doggy suit.

Available from: Equafleece

• We like: Lots of colours to choose from, precise sizing for a snug fit
• Watch out for: If the weather warms up mid-walk, don't let your dog get too hot

If you're heading out for a walk in wet weather, consider wrapping your dog up in this warm and washable suit. You'll keep your pup's flowing fur clean and dry, hopefully preventing your home from turning into a muddy mess when you get back.

The Equafleece comes in a range of sizes and doesn't feature buckles or straps – instead, it hugs your dog and has an open area between the back legs so they can do their business.

Why we chose it:

'No one likes a wet, muddy dog. The Equafleece suit keeps fur clean and dry; whip it off when you get home from a rainy walk, and your dog looks as though they've just been snoozing on the sofa.

'Our dog doesn't love having the coat put on initially but forgets about it once we're out and about on a walk. It's easy to wash and dries quickly.'

Sarah Wisson (owner of Pippin, soft-coated wheaten terrier)

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Rechargeable hand warmers – for heating frozen fingers

What is it? USB-powered heaters that slip into your pockets or gloves.

• We like: Lightweight design, magnetic 
• Watch out for: You'll need to remember to charge them before a long walk 

Tuck these hand warmers into your pocket as you set off, and you can keep your hands toasty just by squeezing them. You can pick from a range of colours.

Each mini heater weighs in at just 65g and a magnetic design means they'll snap together when you need to store them away. The brand says that, after you turn them on, you'll notice the heat in just five seconds. You can pick between three temperature levels.

Why we chose it:

'These rechargeable hand warmers have been an absolute lifesaver for my partner, who suffers from Raynaud’s.

'Being able to keep their hands warm makes walks much more enjoyable on cold, wet days.'

Kelly-Anne Norrington (owner of Buddy the labrador)

Petface plush toy – for comforting your dog

What is it? One of Amazon's best-selling dog toys.

• We like: Affordable, the same brand has lots of different themed toys for a similar price
• Watch out for: Bigger dogs can make light work of plush toys, so look for 'indestructible' options if needed

A plush toy can be the perfect budget-friendly treat for dogs that love to snuggle. This squeaky option from Petface is designed with multiple textures to entertain your dog and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play.

Note that the brand emphasises this isn't an 'indestructible' toy and is susceptible to chew damage over time. It's recommended to supervise your pet while they play.

Why we chose it:

'When I adopted my dog at 10 months, he came with a well-loved lion teddy. He is now on his fourth 'Lion' and we have to import them from the US, as this specific type isn't sold in the UK anymore.

'He adores Lion and carries it around with him, plays pounce with it, licks it like it's a puppy and curls up next to it. Everyone needs a teddy sometimes, including dogs.'

Lisa Barber (owner of Toby the terrier)

Greenies dog treats – for dental hygiene

What is it? Nutritious chews for cleaning teeth and maintaining healthy gums.

• We like: Made with natural ingredients, designed to be easy to digest
• Watch out for: The brand recommends only one per day, not suitable for dogs under six months

These toothbrush-shaped treats contain natural ingredients, vitamins and minerals to support your dog's dental hygiene.

According to the brand, Greenies can help fight plaque and tartar while freshening your pooch's breath. They're easy to digest and could make for an enjoyable daily treat for your pet.

Why we chose it:

'My dogs back home, Fritz and Margot, go crazy for these chews – we can’t even say the word ‘green’ around them because they think they’re getting one.'

Lars Stannard (owner of Margot and Fritz)

Easy Peasy Puppy Squeezy – for brain training and playtime

What is it? A guide created by a professional dog trainer and behaviourist.

• We like: Also available as an audiobook
• Watch out for: Your dog might have unique traits that require a tailored approach

Training a dog can be a challenge and this step-by-step guide aims to guide you through the process.

The book is written by a professional dog trainer and behaviourist. It offers advice suitable for puppies, adult dogs and rescues. It uses 'proven, science-based, and ethical' techniques to strengthen the bond between you and your dog according to its blurb.

Why we chose it:

'When we got our dog as a puppy, we noticed there were quite a few different training books, but this one was simple and easy to follow. It helped a lot with crate training.'

Yamina Aloui (owner of Reggie the dachshund)

Brain Games For Dogs – for mental stimulation

What is it? A book of games for you to try at home with your dog.

• We like: Visual instructions, covers rewards-based teaching methods
• Watch out for: Complex games might frustrate some dogs

This book is filled with games for you and your dog to try, categorised by difficulty. It covers basic skills for less active dogs, includes tasks for specific breeds, and features exercises your dog can do alone.

There are more than 75 games in this owner's guide. As you work your way through it, you'll strengthen your bond with your pooch and provide them with much-needed mental stimulation.

Why we chose it:

'This brain training book helped me bond with a very excitable, smart cockapoo puppy twelve years ago. It's easy to dip into, with a variety of tricks and games to try out. It's also a great way for the whole family to join in the fun.

'Archie has now been trained to fetch rolls of toilet paper from the packet – though I don't think that one's in the book!'

Joanna Bregosz (owner of Archie the cockapoo)

Portable Shower for Dogs – for cleaning your dog before you head home

What is it? A refillable tank with a hose attachment.

• We like: Keeps your dog, house and car clean
• Watch out for: Some dogs don't get on well with water

Storing this shower in your car when you go for a walk or on a camping trip will help reduce the amount of dirt your dog flings around.

The refillable tank, which is attached to a two-metre hose, is dressed in a neoprene jacket that stops the water from getting too cold. The model we've linked to above has a five-litre capacity, but the brand also sells a larger eight-litre tank.

Why we chose it:

'This portable shower is perfect for throwing in the car to clean your dog off before heading home, helping to keep the car clean.

'It's worth keeping an eye out for deals, as we got ours on sale.'

Kelly-Anne Norrington (owner of Buddy the labrador)

Thanks to the following Which? staff for their support in creating this guide: Alba Diaz, Ben Phillips, Daniella Delaney Mendes, Ele Clark, Faith Strickland, Fran Roberts-Thornton, Ginny Purcell, Jade Harding, James Stringer, Joanna Bregosz, Kelly-Anne Norrington, Lars Stannard, Lisa Barber, Martha Roberts, Neal Rimmer, Poppy Gaunt, Ruby Gordon, Sarah Wisson, Steph Kipling Yamina Aloui.