A Bankrate survey recently noted that gift-giving will be cut by 40% this holiday. Rest easy, giving a great present is still possible, especially with homemade gifts for pet parents.
But there’s a process to finding the right gift for the right person or crafting the perfect one. I always think a DIY gift says someone put extra effort and love into the gift.
As such, I look for ways to make great homemade gifts each year. These are some of the best DIY gifts for dog parents. I guarantee you’ll love making them, giving them, and your dog parents will certainly love receiving them as well.
Budget tip:
Even if you fall into the 40% who need to reduce their spending, you can still give a great homemade gift. DIY gifts for pet parents allows you not cut your nice list. A homemade gift is always well received. Moreover, many crafty gift ideas take no skills to create. That's a huge holiday budget winner! Not to mention it is a major stress-reducer during a high-stress time of the year.
1. Paw paste
Not only do my hands get dry in winter, but so do dogs’ paws. This paste also helps repeal snow and winter weather.
I have given this paw paste from the American Kennel Club to my dog-lover community in different decorated containers. It’s always a big hit! I also make sure to keep one on hand for my dog, Henry to help keep his paws healthy.
2. Pumpkin cookies
Who doesn’t love getting homemade treats, even for their pup? These dog cookies from All Recipes are pumpkin and peanut butter and are sure to have all the dogs on your list begging for more. Remember to use dog-friendly peanut butter (without xylitol or chocolate). I also love presenting these dog treats in a great cookie jar or tin with a ribbon. Don’t forget to make an extra batch for your furry friend.
3. No-sew dog bed
I’ll confess that I’m not a great seamstress. So, when I find an awesome dog gift, like this dog bed from Proud Dog Mom that requires no sewing, I’m all in for it! I would recommend using a memory form cushion or a very fluffy pillow for the stuffing.
4. No-sew dog sweater
Yes, again a no-sew dog project! This one by Vicky Bermudez takes just a few minutes and will keep the doggies on your list warm. You can customize it depending on the sweater you select to use. If you don’t have a sweater you want to upcycle to a dog sweater, simply check out your local thrift store. They are certain to have a variety of sweaters available. Plus, the proceeds generally go to help a great organization like an animal shelter, women’s shelter, or meals-on-wheels.
5. Snuffle ball
This is another quick and easy no-sew dog gift that will surprise not only the dog but the dog parent. It’s a snuffle ball DIY toy. Moreover, it’s actually easy to make as is perfectly demonstrated by The Pet Parenting Reset. Remember snuffle balls are great for a dog’s mental stimulation. Pick out fun fabric that reflects your dog recipient’s personality (or upcycle a sweatshirt or two). Also, don’t forget that snuffle balls are wonderful for seniors and blind dogs. Check out Layla, who as a senior and blind dog enjoyed her snuffle ball.
As Layla’s mom did, you can place dog food or dog treats in the snuffle ball dog toy, which is where the mental stimulation part comes into play.
6. No-sew tug-of-war toy
This is another fun and easy dog toy that can be customized with fun colors. The braiding process can be confusing, but this video by Montego Pet Nutrition does a great job demonstrating it.
7. Dog bandana
Who hasn’t seen a cute dog with an adorable bandana bouncing around at the dog park? Learn how to make one from Dalmatian DIY. You don’t even need to know how to sew. Plus, you can personalize it for nearly any dog depending on the fabric you select.
8. Dog collar (requires sewing)
I know I have a couple of collars for Henry. I suspect most dog parents have multiple dog collars for their pups. This homemade dog collar by The Pointy Snoot is adorable and will certainly bring a smile to your dog parents. This one does require some sewing though. Keep in mind with a dog collar you want it to be very sturdy. However, if you have a few basic sewing skills, you can easily make this dog collar in no time.
9. Dog leash
I think I have at least four leashes for Henry. Although, I imagine that’s fairly typical as well. This DIY dyed leash by Curly is adorable! It’s easy to make and can certainly be personalized with the colors you select. You can’t go wrong with it!
10. Leash holder
This DIY dog leash holder by A Crafty Mix will take a few more skills with a drill and saw, but the end result is truly a keeper! You could even add the dog’s name to the plaque to personalize it even further. Or if you can find a silhouette of the dog breed recipient to use instead of the one provided you can make it very personalized. Honestly, who wouldn’t love receiving this one?
BONUS: Dog parent hand scrub
I just have to through this gift idea onto the list for dog lovers. Heck, it’s a perfect gift for any person. I’ve given a hand scrub to many of my dog parents over the years. This is my favorite recipe. I’ve even been asked for refills, which I take as a sign of a great gift!
Treat yourself when you put together a large batch and keep a jar! I have one by my kitchen sink.
Sugar hand scrub
Ingredients:
- ½ cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)
Directions:
- mix all ingredients thoroughly
- place in a pretty jar (small Mason jars work nicely)
- scoop a small tablespoon or so on palms and massage for 1-2 minutes
- rinse with warm water
- repeat 2-3 times/week.
Related posts:
- Shocking Guide of How Homemade Dog Treats Save BIG!
- Great Dog Lover Gifts With Amazing Bonuses!
- Mind Games for Dogs Every Dog Loves!
- Best Way To Give A Dog As A Gift
- 25 Affordable Date Ideas For Your Partner And Dog
Who Doesn’t Love Homemade Gifts for Pet Parents?
Don’t you just love DIY gifts? I certainly do! You just can’t go wrong with them, especially when you find the right homemade gift for the right dog parent. It’s a fun activity. Honestly, it doesn’t take much time, your budget thanks you, and your dog parents love these gifts. What could be better?
Love these suggestions! As someone who is not at all a DIY fan, I’ve found quite a few gift ideas I would consider trying. There’s nothing like taking the time to hand make something to make someone important feel really special.
Yes, agree that a homemade gift is extra special. I always love a thoughtful homemade gift.
Gift giving is down 40% Holy moly that is a worrying trend for all pet owners!
I am so glad you shared some useful things that will be awesome budget busters. I would have a dog to go without because of their parent’s limited income.
Isn’t that crazy that gift giving is down so much? It could decline more here in the US next year. All the more reason to share some great homemade ideas. Thanks for the continued support!
I love these ideas for DIY gifts! I’m definitely going to try making the Snuffle Ball and Bandana! Thanks for all the instructions, I’m pinning them!
Oh, I’m glad to hear you’re going to try the snuffle ball and bandana ideas. I bet Icy and Jessie will love them!
Terri, I LOVE these ideas! I had made a bunch of the tug-o-war toys years ago and gave some to my FiveSibes (who loved them!) and also gave them away as prizes for one of my online photo contests on my blog. They are so much fun and boy dogs sure love them. As a matter of fact, I still have a Rubbermaid tote filled with fabric to make more!
I also love the sewless beds. I tried my hand it at once and it was so much fun and it was well loved!
Pumpkin cookies are always hit! Healthy and yummy! And the leash hook is so cute! Talk about a stylish and fun way to hand the leads!
Oh, this post sure puts me in the howliday spirit – and I do miss my pups so much, especially this time of year. I bet Henry has some fun homemade items!
Sharing these great ideas with all of my readers!
Homemade is fun, isn’t it, Dorothy? I bet your five love the tug-of-war and cookies. I’m glad this helped put you in the spirit of the season. Thanks for the support!