Presents for people who prefer paws to parties

golden retriever dog in a christmas present sack — Samantha Gehrmann / Stocksy

To be completely honest (and speaking from experience) dog people really are their own breed. They’re the ones with more photos of their pup on their phone than actual humans, who plan holidays around dog-friendly accommodation and who’d genuinely rather stay in with their fluffy best mate than actually go to most social events (who, me?). So if you’re shopping for someone who says “hi” to canine companions before human ones, finding the perfect Christmas gift is about celebrating that love (obsession?) in style.

But the beauty of shopping for dog lovers? They’re wonderfully predictable. Show them something with a dog on it, a gift that makes walkies easier or a present that reminds them of their pup when they eventually have to leave them at home (sob) and you’ve pretty much nailed it. Whether you’re after something for the dog walker who has everything, the Cocker Spaniel parent who needs their specific breed represented or the rescue dog advocate who wants to give back, we’ve tracked down the best Christmas gifts for dog lovers that actually hit the mark.

Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They're always in stock at the time we publish, but there's a chance they'll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We've got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)

Oliver Bonas Dog Person Blue Mug

£12.5

Some presents are subtle. This mug, however, is not. The crockery equivalent of a bounding Golden Retriever pup who hasn’t quite grown into their huge paws yet, this mug might not be subtle but boy is it cute. Perfect for telling everyone on your Zoom call where your allegiances lie, or gifting to the friend who says “hi” to the dog before humans at parties.

£12.5 at Oliver Bonas

RSPCA Dogs Phone Case

£16

There’s protecting your phone, and then there’s protecting your phone while doing a bit of good. This eco-friendly, biodegradable case from the RSPCA is made from natural materials (no nasties here), and features a cute dog design that tells the world exactly where your priorities lie. Plus, every purchase supports the RSPCA’s vital work rescuing and rehoming animals across the UK.

£16 at RSPCA

Dog Days Out: 365 things to do with your dog in the UK and Ireland

Dog Days Out: 365 things to do with your dog in the UK and Ireland

£18.4

Are you even a pet parent if you don’t plan your entire year around your dog’s happiness? Written by award-winning travel writer and devoted dog parent Lottie Gross, this gorgeously photographed guidebook offers 365 dog-friendly adventures across the UK and Ireland, from rambles through the Scottish Highlands to beaches in Cornwall where your pup can really let loose. You’ll find essential info on local bylaws, safety tips, advice for reactive dogs and accessible options for dogs with mobility issues.

£18.4 at Amazon

Pet Portrait Gift Hand Drawn Illustration

Pet Portrait Gift Hand Drawn Illustration

£70 £49

There are gifts, and then there are the gifts – the ones that make people go suspiciously quiet before tearing up a bit. A custom pet portrait absolutely falls into that category. Whether you choose a hand-drawn minimalist sketch or a classic pencil portrait, the bespoke artworks not only capture your pup’s pretty face but also their whole personality.

£49 at Not on the High Street

Sorry I'm Late, I Saw A Dog Sweatshirt

£35

For those that wear their heart on their sleeve (or motivations on their chest), this is the kind of present that will have fellow dog lovers nodding in solidarity. Whether you’re the person who physically cannot walk past a dog without saying hello (very fair), or you know someone who is, this is the wardrobe addition that doubles as a fair warning about your dog-loving personality.

£35 at Everpress

Maxbone GO! Portable Silicone Dog Bowl Set

Maxbone GO! Portable Silicone Dog Bowl Set

£22

For the pups who refuse to compromise on their high standards, even mid-hike. This chic silicone double bowl set from LA-based brand Maxbone is collapsible, easy to clean and sophisticated enough for the most design-conscious dog parent. It rolls up when not in use (genius), clips onto bags or belts with the attached loop (even more genius), and holds about 2.5 cups in each bowl – perfect for thirsty pups after a long ramble.

£22 at Selfridges

Oliver Bonas Dog Star Christmas Tree Topper

Oliver Bonas Dog Star Christmas Tree Topper

£22.5

Can’t decide between a star and an angel on top of your Christmas tree? Why settle for one when you could have both a star and an angel baby pooch?

£22.5 at Oliver Bonas

Cocopup Crossbody Crescent Dog Walking Bag

Cocopup Crossbody Crescent Dog Walking Bag

£28

Say goodbye to chaotic poo bags stuffed in pockets and treat crumbs coating your pockets. This gorgeous Merlot crossbody bag is the walkies accessory you didn’t know you needed. With a discreet poo bag dispenser, an easy-access treat pouch on the strap (your dog can thank me later) and enough room for your phone, keys and other pup parents essentials, it’s as practical as it is pretty.

£28 at null

RSPCA Rescue Dogs

£15

If you’ve ever wondered about the stories behind those soulful eyes at the rescue centre, this beautiful book is your answer. Featuring stunning portraits of rescue dogs who’ve found their happy endings – from Mr Bojangles, who was rescued after being hit by a car, to 15-year-old Molly, who got a second chance at life – this hardback collection will tug at your heartstrings and restore your faith in humanity all at once (tissues at the ready!).

£15 at RSPCA

M&S Cockapoo Dog Mug

£6

Slightly more subtle that its ‘dog person’ predecessor, this china mug is an ode to your fave breed. Whether you’re a Cockapoo parent yourself or you know someone whose entire personality revolves around their curly-coated companion, this is the kind of affordable, thoughtful gift that actually gets used every single day.

£6 at null

HAY Colour Crate

£4.1

A playful, stylish option for organising your dog’s toys, treats and other accessories, these collapsible crates are stackable to the ceiling, come in three sizes and over a dozen colours, and are made entirely from recycled plastic.

£4.1 at Nordic Nest

Google Nest Cam

£89.99 £76.49

Perfect for the person who wants to keep an eye on their dog when they’re out of the house, the Google Nest Cam can alert a user when their pet has entered the room. Videos are full-colour, high resolution and securely stored through your Google account. The Nest Cam is also a lovely little piece of design that fits stylishly into any home.

£76.49 at Amazon

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12 Christmas Gifts That Scream ‘Dog Person’