Gift Ideas For Senior Dogs

As holiday time creeps up on us yet again, thoughts drift around about what to buy for those we love. And we all know that pets shouldn’t get left out of the holiday gift-giving. They share their unconditional love with us every day, without fail, and we love them back in return. But sometimes, especially as they age, we’re not sure what to give them, so we’d like to share some gift ideas for senior dogs we think they'd love.

Senior dogs are those in their golden years, typically between 7 and 10 years old, depending on their breed. They may be slowing down, having a little dental trouble, feeling the cold more than before, having a tougher time on hard floors, and generally wanting a little more comfort in their lives. And, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to be more comfortable.

Let’s start with a few gift ideas for senior dogs that can help make them more comfy around your home.

Beds For Senior Dogs

There’s a huge choice of dog beds available, but those that your senior dog may enjoy most in their old age are those with good support. The better choices for older dogs include orthopedic and/or memory foam beds. Here’s a little more info on these choices.

Orthopedic Dog Beds

Orthopedic dog beds often have a firmer foam base to help support older pups with degenerative joint conditions such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. Some do have memory foam parts for extra support. 

Look for features like bolsters or those that look like couches, so your older dog can choose their most comfortable position in lots of different ways

Memory Foam Dog Beds

These dog beds have great support, but be sure to keep them in a warmer spot since cold memory foam can feel brick-hard until it warms up. 

Look for beds with a non-skid base, waterproof pads, and a removable cover for easy cleaning - accidents or not. Whichever bed you choose for your senior dog's gift, make sure it’s big enough for them to spread out comfortably, depending on how your dog sleeps.

Senior Dog Gifts For Warmth

Who’s always closest to a heat source when they sleep? Yes, your dog knows where the warmth is, and that’s what they enjoy, which is why smaller breeds tend to snuggle up beside you on the couch or on your lap when they nap.

So here are a few suggestions for keeping your senior dog warm and happy.

Dog Blankets

Dogs love cozy blankets! I knew a dog who couldn’t get comfy unless he had fluffed, primped, placed his blanket just so, then circled at least three times until he found his most comfy spot. Do you know a dog like that?

Yes, dogs all have their quirks, but some things are universal about the type of blankets that are best for dogs. Here’s what to look out for, both good and bad.

DO look for easily washable blankets, such as man-made microfiber or fleece, which tend to be stronger, more durable, and generally easier to care for. Older dogs, especially those who’ve recently had surgery, tend to have more accidents, and washing machines are more convenient than spot cleaning.

DO give your dog blankets that have a tight weave or furry surface. The fur is nice and soft and warm, and the tight weave makes sure they don’t snag teeth or toenails.

DON’T give your pets a hand-knit or crocheted blanket for the above reason. You don’t want them to snag a nail and either rip your blanket or lose a toenail or tooth. Not to mention, handmade blankets unravel more easily when chewed and can cause even worse problems if the yarn is swallowed.

DON’T give your dogs weighted or heated blankets, as both can prove dangerous, particularly for older or weaker dogs, or those that tend to chew.

Senior Dog Coats

Dog coats are great gift ideas for senior dogs, especially here in Colorado, where temperatures can dip at the drop of a hat. Dog coats come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and styles. Dog coats come in various patterns, plain, solid colors, stripes, prints - you name it. You’re bound to find something that suits both your and your dog’s style.

Many dog coats have a fleece lining and a wind or waterproof outer layer. This is a great combination to help keep your older dog warm, as they’ll still need bathroom visits and exercise, whatever the weather.

Boots For Senior Dogs

Paws get cold, particularly when it comes to senior dogs going outside. Many dogs don’t like the feel of boots or booties at first, but if it saves them some discomfort, they’re definitely worth a try.

Boots or booties come in all shapes and sizes, including those that just cover the feet to what we’d call thigh highs with suspenders that come all the way up the legs. From fabric only to those with soles, you’ll find dog boots that are perfect for your best friend.

You’ll most likely need to draw around your dog’s paw while they're standing and measure carefully to make sure you get the right size, particularly if you’re ordering online.

Comfort Gift Ideas For Senior Dogs

We all want to be comfortable as we grow older, right? Dogs are no different. Older dogs who are slowing down, don’t have the energy they used to, and may have more aches and pains than they did in their younger days, will appreciate these gift ideas for senior dogs because they’ll make their lives so much easier.

Steps For Senior Dogs

If getting into the car or hopping up on the couch has become difficult, then maybe your loving dog would appreciate steps to help them both up and down. 

Make sure the steps you give are tall enough to reach where they need to go, and spaced well enough for your dog’s size and capabilities. You want steps that match their leg length and the height of the car, bed, or couch they need to reach.

Choose lighter-weight, portable steps to keep in the car, but consider heavier-duty ones for home, where you won’t need to move them as often. Look for a sturdy non-slip base and steps that fit your dog’s size and weight.

Lifting Harnesses For Dogs

Sometimes, steps still aren’t quite enough, and they need even more help from you. That’s when a lifting harness can be great for both of you. You don’t have to try to figure out where to put your arms to help them, and your dog has support exactly where they need it.

Depending on your dog’s mobility issues, you can find harnesses that just help you lift their back end to full-body sling-style harnesses that help support their whole body weight. Choose the harness that best suits your dog’s size and weight, as well as the harness's weight capacity.

Raised Food And Water Dishes

Sometimes, the best gift ideas for senior dogs allow them to eat and drink comfortably. After all, being capable of feeding themselves comes with dignity.

Raised food and water dishes can be critical for your older dog’s comfort. It’s a simple idea, and it doesn’t have to be fancy, but raising their food and water can help considerably.

Non-Slip Floor Mats

All dogs struggle with traction on slippery floors, so non-slip floor mats can help any dog, not just seniors. Again, floor mats come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Waterproof or easy-clean mats are probably the most useful, but failing that, low-profile yoga mats also do the job

Grooming Gifts For Senior Dogs

Grooming is a tough one. Some dogs love the pampering, some just don’t. But one essential when it comes to your dog’s comfort is keeping their nails trimmed.

Nail Clippers

I’m not sure I’ve met a dog that actually likes getting their nails clipped. But if you’re lucky enough to own one of those easy-clip dogs and they don’t like the groomers, there are lots of great nail clippers around. Choose those that are sharp, but make sure they have a nail guide so you know how low to cut to prevent bleeding nails.

Grooming Gloves

Some dogs don’t like being brushed, but it’s the rare dog who doesn’t enjoy being petted. That’s why some clever soul invented grooming gloves. Your dog will simply feel like it’s being petted (unless it has snaggled fur after a fun outdoor adventure). It might also feel like a light massage with the short, bendable bristles gently rubbing their skin.

Senior Dog Bathroom Gifts

Senior dogs can start experiencing bathroom troubles and need to go more often than they can get out, or be caught short, so preventing a lot of extra laundry or carpet cleaning can be a great option for you.

Washable Pee Pads

There’s all manner of washable ‘accident’ or pee pads around these days, and they’re not just for puppies. Older dogs can benefit from having an emergency spot to potty if they’re home alone longer than usual or just can’t make it outside as fast as they used to.

These often decorative pads can help protect your floors and make cleanup easier. If you prefer not to use disposable pads, you can find machine-washable alternatives.

So, it’s not hard to find gift ideas for senior dogs. Some of these suggestions help your dog more, and some help you take better care of your dog. 

We hope you find something that helps make both of your lives easier year-round.