Each year a Christmas stocking is hung for the dog.  The tradition was started when my oldest child asked why our doggy didn’t have a Christmas stocking.  Does Santa like dogs?  I explained that our course Santa liked dogs.  Fortunately, we had an old crocheted Christmas stocking that was never used and it became the dogs.  Thank goodness that I still had time to run out and buy our dog a few little treats.  As my kids grew and fully understood who Santa was, they began their own dog present search.  It is truly amazing what one can purchase for a dog.

A new dog collar is a great idea.  The collars come in assorted colors and designs.  One is sure to fit your miniature poodle or your yellow lab.  The collar can be decked out in rhinestones to celebrate the holidays or camouflage for the hunting trips.  Unique collars can be purchased online.  How about a Victoria Pink dog collar, you can find them on Ebay!

The Kong is one of dog’s best friends.  Made out of the toughest material, even the best chewer won’t make it through the Kong.  It comes in two colors red and black.  The Kong comes in various shapes and sizes for small, medium and large breed dogs.  For added fun, put a bit of peanut butter just on the inside of the Kong and this will keep your dog happy!  Another member of the Kong family is the Air Kong.  It looks and feels like a tennis ball.  I would not recommend this toy for big chewers.  If your dog is a big chewer and you like the toy, just keep it put away when you are not playing with the dog.

Dog clothing and outerwear is becoming more and more fashionable.  Outerwear for dogs is notable in regions where the weather can be cold.  Keeping your dog warm while out for a walk helps shield them from the cold arctic air.  Dog booties are also the rage, keeping those paws warm for the cold sidewalk.  Finish off your dog’s fashion with a scarf.  Purchase a Halloween costume and dress your dog up for the occasion.

Rawhides and other chew toys are wonderful little gifts to stuff in the stocking at Christmas.  Natural Sterilized bones are our dog’s favorite.  Made from real beef bones, they are sterilized and stuffed with nutritious meat fillings.  It won’t take long for your dog to get all the filling out.  The bone itself lasts a very long time. These bones are great for chewers.

Replacing your dog’s bed once a year is a good idea.  After a year, it is full of doggy slobber, hair and dust mites.  Christmas is a great time to give your dog a new bed.  There are many varieties, fabrics and colors to choose from.

Finally, it’s the simple things that count.  If all you do is fill the dog’s stocking up with a few of their favorite Milkbone treats, they will be happy.  You can also purchase gourmet treats at PetSmart and Petco by bulk.