Is Buying Your Pet a Holiday Gift Really Worth It?

by Rachel M.

Published: October 31st, 2025

The holidays are a special time for giving and showing love. While we often think about presents for family and friends, our pets are part of the family too.

Buying a holiday gift for your pet isn’t just fun, it also brings real benefits for both you and your furry friend.

Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cat under Christmas tree - image via Canva

Strengthens Your Bond

Giving your pet a gift is a wonderful way to show that they are loved and included in the celebrations. Watching your dog or cat enjoy a new toy, snuggle in a cozy blanket, or explore a special treat is a joyful experience. It helps you feel connected and gives your pet a sense of being cared for.

Provides Mental Stimulation and Enrichment

Pets, especially dogs and cats, thrive on new experiences. Toys, puzzles, or interactive treats provide mental stimulation that can reduce boredom, ease anxiety, and prevent unwanted behaviors. A thoughtful gift can make your pet feel happy, engaged, and more relaxed during the holiday season.

Promotes Comfort and Security

Holiday gifts like cozy blankets or plush toys can give your pet a sense of comfort and security, which they might need a bit more of if there are lots of people around.

Dog near Christmas presents - image via Canva

Three Adorable Gift Ideas

1. Custom Catch Personalized Dog Blanket

This large blanket comes in gray or beige and can be personalized for your dog. It’s soft, cozy, and perfect for snuggling. Your pet will love having a special blanket just for them.

Custom Catch Personalized Dog Blanket - image via Amazon

2. Cat Ball Track Toy with Puzzle Top

This wooden cat toy is perfect for indoor cats and kittens. It features spinning balls and a puzzle top to keep your cat mentally and physically active. Large enough for energetic play, it encourages exercise while providing endless entertainment for your feline friend.

Cat Ball Track Toy with Puzzle Top - image via Amazon

3. New Puppy Gift Basket

This premium puppy starter kit includes toys, treats, and essential items for a new puppy. It’s ideal for young dogs or new puppy owners. The basket provides comfort, entertainment, and everything your puppy needs to feel at home.

Premium puppy starter kit - image via Amazon

Final Thoughts

Buying a holiday gift for your pet is a wonderful way to show love, provide enrichment, and create joyful moments together.

With thoughtful choices, your pet can enjoy the holidays as much as you do.

Cat next to gifts - image via Canva

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Rachel M.

More by Rachel M.

Caught in Rip Tide, Dog Paddling Black Labrador Gets Lucky

View Article

Top 10 Last Minute Holiday Gifts For The Pets (And Pet People) In Your

Time’s a ticking and the shopping days left are dwindling. If you’ve still got some pups (or their Pawrents) on your list, we’ve found the top ten last minute holiday gifts you’ll want to check out!

It's Back! 2025 American Humane Society's Hero Dog Award!

Meet the short list of five super special dogs all vying for this year's title.

New Ban on Sale of Animals at Pet Stores in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has joined other parts of the U.S., like New York, where pet stores are banned from selling animals. The new ordinance is designed to reduce the risks associated with large-scale breeding, and also helps promote animal health and welfare. Below is a breakdown of the new law and what you should know about it.

Do Frogs Make Good Pets?

Frogs are fascinating, colorful, and surprisingly diverse creatures, with over 7,000 species found across the globe. While they are not as mainstream as cats or dogs, many amphibian enthusiasts keep frogs as pets. But are they a good choice for you? The answer depends on your expectations, lifestyle, and level of commitment. Let’s get into it.

7 Signs Your Pet Might Be Stressed

Pets can’t tell us when they’re feeling overwhelmed, but their behavior often speaks louder than words. Just like people, animals experience stress, and it’s important to recognize the signs so you can help them feel safe and comfortable. Here are seven signs your pet might be stressed.

Actor and Animal Lover Diane Keaton Gave Back

From fund-raisers to raising awareness, the actor of Annie Hall fame, gave time and celeb status to her fave rescue.

5 Common Fall Decor Pieces That Aren’t Pet Safe

Fall is a cozy and festive time of year, filled with warm colors, scented candles, and seasonal decorations. However, many pet owners don’t realize that these beautiful décor pieces can actually be dangerous for their furry friends. Here are 5 common ones to look out for.

3 Adorable Christmas Sweaters for Small Dogs

As the holidays roll around, it’s not just humans getting into the festive spirit. Our furry friends deserve to look just as merry, and stay warm doing it. Whether you’re taking family photos, visiting friends, or enjoying a walk in the cold, a Christmas sweater for your dog can make the season extra special. Here are three charming options.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Fun Toys to Keep Your Cat Entertained Indoors

Cats are naturally curious, playful, and full of energy. Whether you’re raising a kitten or caring for an adult cat, the right toys and accessories can help keep your furry friend active, engaged, and happy when they’re indoors. From climbing towers to interactive puzzles, here are five fun toys to keep your cat entertained.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

The Cleaning Upgrade Every Pet-Friendly Home Needs

Get rid of pet hair, dust, and dander before the new year hits and step into 2026 with a home that feels fresh.Mess doesn’t wait for a convenient moment , especially in busy homes with pets. One minute the floors are spotless, and the next there’s fur drifting across the carpet, crumbs under the table, and dust settling onto the floorboards. That’s why the BISSELL PowerClean® FurFinder™ Stick Vacuum is built for real life cleaning. It’s designed to handle the constant cycle of pet hair, dander, and daily debris, so your home can stay fresh without turning clean-up into a full production.

Did You Know This About Pugs?!

Pugs are one of the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds in the world. With their round faces, expressive eyes, and gentle personalities, they’ve charmed people for centuries. Whether you’re a longtime pug owner or simply a fan, here are five fun facts to enjoy.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

It's Official: Two Golden Retrievers Named as Next Air Bud Stars

Golden Retrievers enter nationwide casting call to be the next Buddy in super-popular Air Bud franchise.

How Much of My Dogs Grooming Can I Do Without Formal Training?

(photo credit: Zuzanna Paluch / shutterstock.com)With two Schnoodles and a Miniature Schnauzer, grooming costs can take a big bite out of my budget. And like many pet owners with dogs in need of regular clipping, I not only considered the do-it-yourself option during COVID, but I jumped in with both feet. Yes, grooming kit and all, I clipped and shaved with guesswork guiding me, because I had no choice. The results? Rough to say the least, with my go-to response to other dog owners being “at least they’re cooler now”.Of course, once quarantines were lifted, I was happy to let the professionals take over, but my foray into grooming did make me wonder if, by doing some of the “clean-up” work myself, I could extend the duration between those pricey haircuts. The easy stuff, like ear cleaning, bath and blow dry, nail trimming.The truth is, with the right equipment, I can, and it starts with a good brushing. And we’re talking a serious clean-up with the sole goal being to remove tangles and the bits of debris your pooch has collected over the past week or so. Legs, ears, paws, torso, beak… it all gets a thorough once-over.

Bam Bam, the Stolen Support Dog, Reunited with Owner After 2 Months

It’s taken more than two months, but Bam Bam the service dog has been reunited with his family in Chicago. His owner, Angel Santiago, is 58 years old and legally blind, and desperately searched for his missing pooch ever since he went missing. Here are the details.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet Degu

If you’ve ever wanted a pet that’s as curious as a squirrel but as social as a guinea pig, you might want to meet the degu. These small rodents from Chile aren’t as common as hamsters or rabbits, but for the right person they make engaging, lively companions. Before you dive in, though, there are a few important things to know.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

3 Fun Facts About Your Dog's Nose

Dogs are known for their incredible sense of smell, but their noses are fascinating for more reasons than just that. Here are three fun facts about your dog’s nose that might surprise you.

The Future of Pet Care: How PetSafe® Tech Is Making Homes Smarter

Our homes are getting smarter, and now pet care is too.From self-cleaning litter boxes to GPS-enabled fences, PetSafe® is redefining modern pet care with connected solutions that simplify routines and bring greater peace of mind—making everyday life easier, cleaner, and more joyful for both pets and their people.

How Do I Keep My Bird Entertained?

Birds are smart, social animals that need regular stimulation to stay mentally and physically healthy. Without enough enrichment, birds can become bored, stressed, or even develop behavioral and health issues. The good news is that there are many simple, effective ways to keep your bird engaged every day.Provide a Variety of ToysToys are one of the easiest ways to keep your bird busy and entertained. Birds love to chew, shred, and explore, so choose toys made from bird-safe materials like wood, rope, or plastic. Items with moving parts, bells, or textures can be especially engaging. Puzzle toys and foraging toys that encourage problem-solving are excellent for mental stimulation.

Top stories

Is Buying Your Pet a Holiday Gift Really Worth It?

Strengthens Your Bond

Provides Mental Stimulation and Enrichment

Promotes Comfort and Security