dog gift basket

Now, what to fill your basket with? We all know dogs love to eat. A visit to your local pet shop will turn up lots of dog treats, from biscuits to dried pig ears, which yes, evidently, most dogs seem to savor as a gourmet-style bone munchie of sorts. Ask the pet shop clerk about other gourmet dog treats. Much like stocking stuffers, these munchies make up the basket stuffer portion for your dog gift basket. These pet shop dog treats are typically low calorie, so this idea works even for dogs in the gourmand category of canines.

Just like the perennial kids they are, dogs of all ages love toys. Browse the toy section of the pet shop. It's easy to see that your gift basket is already getting full.

For the dog who is not into fashion, more of a 'dog's dog', he or she will still probably enjoy sporting a fancy collar to show off to friends. (I once knew a dog who proudly pranced around with one of those big plastic hoods issued by the vet following surgery, to prevent biting and worrying the stitches, so don't discount this idea out of hand. Dogs do like to show off.)

For the dog who's more inclined to fashionable wear, a little surfing on the net will turn up the most amazing items to add to your dog gift basket: there are dog boutique websites, which offer a complete line of clothing, from fun, 'personality' tee-shirts to cashmere sweaters and tuxedos, for the truly pampered pet. There are even retro clothes, as well as boots, sneakers and winter coats! Jewelry and other accessories, such as hats, scarves, ties, barrettes - to tame unruly fur - and sunglasses are hot sellers. Some sites have print catalogs of all their wares, free for the asking. Get on their mailing list so you can browse at your leisure. Some of these luxury items can be a little pricy, so just a couple of these will suffice for the budget conscious dog gift basket shopper.

The finishing touch to your dog gift basket might be a gift certificate, tucked away in a corner of the basket (or handed to the dog owner, so it's not mistaken for a treat). Good gift certificate choices range from a shampoo and groom to a day at a dog spa. Aromatherapy for dogs? Yes, it's available. How about a pet photographer to immortalize the family's favorite dog?

With a friend like you, we might all like to be a dog for a day, receiving the bounty of goodies in your dog gift basket!