Things to Consider Before Giving a Puppy as a Present

Are you thinking about sharing the love of a puppy with a friend or family member this holiday season? Puppies are a great joy, however, not everyone may be ready to receive a puppy as a gift. Because a furry little life is on the line, it’s wise to consider this decision carefully before making a puppy purchase.

Things to Consider Before Giving a Puppy as a Present

·         Space.
Consider the size and temperament of the pup with the housing of its intended family. Puppies need room to live, play, and potty, presenting challenges to those living in apartments and homes without greenspace.

·         Financial situation.
Pets require a significant and longstanding investment in food and health care. Unexpected illnesses and injuries, such as a pup that swallows a toy or gets injured in an accident, can quickly add up to thousands.

·         Families with children.
While children may adore the idea of a cute, fuzzy little puppy, a family may have other demands that take priority. Puppies require a significant investment in time and energy, and may not be the best gift for families with ‘2 under 2’ or older children with a hectic after school sports schedule.

·         The health of older adults.
If your friend is barely getting around, a rambunctious puppy, particularly one that will grow to a large size, may be too much for her. Those in poor health could also end up orphaning a puppy.

·         Major life changes.
Those who have recently graduated, are expecting a baby, or suffering a health crisis more than likely do not need a puppy at this tumultuous time.

·         Travel.
If your friend or loved one is a frequent traveler, they may feel tied down by a puppy. Worse, the pup could suffer severe separation anxiety when repeatedly left behind.

·         Work schedule.
Social and dependent, a puppy may not be the best idea for someone working 50-60 hour workweeks. Puppies need someone dedicated to their care.

A Puppy is a Lifetime Commitment

Has your friend or family member expressed they are prepared for the responsibility of a puppy and committed to their lifelong care? If so, the addition of a new furry family member can make a wonderful gift, alongside all the accoutrements of a successful puppy introduction, such as bedding, food, and toys.

Ensure an easier transition. Give the gift of dog training as a present alongside your pup this holiday season. Contact DoGone Fun to learn more today.

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/owning-a-dog/things-to-consider-before-giving-a-puppy-as-a-present/

Ultimate Doggie Gift Guide

Are you short on ideas on what to get for the four-legged love of your life this holiday season? The staff at DoGone Fun has some drool-worthy holiday gift ideas that are guaranteed to get your best friend’s tail wagging.

  

High-Tech Finds

These gadgets make excellent gifts for dogs (and owners) who love tech:

·         GoBone
GoBone moves on its own. Auto-program it to entice your pet at certain times of the day or react to your pet's actions, placing treats in the wheels for later dispensing. This interactive toy links to your smartphone, allowing you to watch/record the action. An excellent toy for pets "home alone" this holiday season. Check out a video to see this fantastic toy in action.

·         Headlight Harness
Headlight Harness features a bright LED light, capable of shining up to 100 feet. It's a great way to improve your pet's field of vision and help him stand out during dog walking sessions.

Gastronomic Gifts for the Fluffy Foodie

Kibble-oriented canine? Sign up for a dog food delivery service, gifting your pooch a healthful treat. These services often feature natural, healthy food, and prices start at less than $3/day. Popular options include:

·         The Farmer’s Dog

·         PetPlate

·         Ollie

·         NomNomNow

·         JustFoodForDogs

·         SnapWag

Fashionable Finds

Coordinate your clothes to your canine with ZOO Supply Designer Dog Clothes. This retailer provides pet sweatshirts and jerseys in the same high-quality fabric and fun prints as they make for humans. Prefer pup only paraphernalia? There's no shortage of gear available through online retailers such as:

·         Ruffwear

·         WagWear

·         Canine Styles

·         Pet Haus

·         Pepito & Co.

·         Bauhound

·         Penn + Pooch

·         Ruby Rufus

·         And more!

Excellent All-Around Gifts

Gift boxes and subscription services are in high demand in today's busy times. The ideal solution for an action-packed holiday schedule, subscription boxes offer one-of-a-kind finds and high-quality products. They save time, helping you skip the hassle of hunting down specialty finds at area shops. Top consumer and canine-rated options include:

·         Super Chewer

·         BarkBox

·         Pet Treater

·         Surprise My Pet

·         PawPack

·         PetBox

·         BoxDog

·         Shaggy S.W.A.G.

Pro shopper tip: Be mindful of subscriptions that automatically renew.

Looking for something a little outside the box? Get your canine companion the gift of fun this holiday season. Book your dog an activity-filled day with his furry friends at doggy daycare, or schedule a holiday pampering session for your pooch with the grooming staff at DoGone Fun today.

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/owning-a-dog/ultimate-doggie-gift-guide/