It’s that time of year again, and I have one family member who has yet to experience all the fun that comes with the holiday season — my adorable, 9-year-old rescue dog, Tiger. Although it’s not my first time going Christmas shopping for a dog, it will be Tiger’s first Christmas with us, and I’m determined to make sure it’s extra special. While I do plan on putting some presents under the Christmas tree, I think he still deserves a holiday stocking full of treats, just like the rest of us humans.
Rather than wait until after a huge holiday meal or get caught up in the Black Friday hustle, I rounded up my top 10 recommendations for holiday treats for your dog that could go in their stocking this year — assuming they made the nice list. Because, let’s be honest. The only thing your dog wants this year is more fun things to eat.
Gingerbread-Flavored Greenies, Prices Vary
Throughout my several years as a dog mom, Greenies have always been a staple in my household, and my dogs often try to grab the treat right out of my hand. Even these gingerbread-flavored ones seem to get the pups excited to clean their teeth. Gingerbread Greenies are available in multiple sizes on Chewy, depending on your dog’s breed.
Blue Buffalo’s Santa Snacks, $7
Ever since his adoption, Tiger has been obsessed with the treats by Blue Buffalo. Maxine the Fluffy Corgi wasn’t kidding when she claimed that their treats are addictive. Now, you can buy Blue Buffalo treats in fun little holiday shapes such as a snowman, a star, and a tree.
Milk-Bone’s Pawliday Soft & Chewy Chicken Treats, $5
Milk-Bone was my childhood dog’s absolute favorite, and if your dog loves chicken-flavored chewy treats, they will definitely love these. Instead of these treats being the classic bone shape, Milk-Bones Pawliday treats come in three festive shapes: a snowman, a snowflake, and a mitten.
Merry Makings Pan Dulce Dog Treats, $5
These vanilla-flavored Pan Dulce treats by Merry Makings are perfect for a classier pup. Pan Dulce is a Mexican pastry that means “sweet bread.” To make this delicacy dog-friendly, the brand used natural ingredients such as carob, vegetable oil, wheat flour, and natural vanilla flavoring.
Lord Jameson Gingerbread Vegan Dog Treats, $14
All about organic? Lord Jameson’s Gingerbread treats might be perfect for your pup. Not only is every single ingredient organic, but the treats are also full of plant-based proteins and omega-6 fatty acids. Plus, these treats support gut health so your dog’s stomach can stay nice and happy during this hectic holiday season.
Merry & Bright Reindeer and Santa Cookies, $5
Want to feel like you’re eating Christmas cookies with your fur baby? These adorable apple cinnamon-flavored treats are decorated in dog-safe frosting to look like one of Santa’s reindeer and Santa’s classic red suit.
Buddy Biscuits Buddy Softies Gingerbread Cookies, $6
While you and your relatives are tearing apart the gingerbread house, your dog can now get in on the fun with these treats by Buddy Biscuits. These bite-sized cookies are nice and chewy for dogs who don’t want to feel like they’re crunching on a ginger snap.
Spunky Pup Milk & Cookies, $5
Who said only Santa can have milk and cookies? If you want your dog to keep their paws off Santa’s sweets, these peanut butter-flavored treats shaped like cookies and milk cartons are sure to do the trick. They’re made with all-natural peanut butter and consist of less than 10 ingredients.
Lord Jameson Holiday Coconut Superfetti Food Topper, $10
If you’re looking to make your dog’s meals extra special on Christmas day, this pet food topper is perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Made without artificial dyes and only three organic ingredients (coconut, beets, and spinach), this topper adds a pop of classic festive colors to your pet’s holiday dinner.
Gmason Grinch Gingerbread Crunchy Treats, $9
If the Grinch was interested in stealing Christmas, then he may try to steal these treats for his dog, Max, as well! These bone-shaped treats consist of peanut butter, oats, and cinnamon, and are the perfect treat for your dog to enjoy while watching Jim Carrey’s version of How The Grinch Stole Christmas.