We’ve had the first major snowstorm of the season, your turkey leftovers are in the fridge, and you finished off the pumpkin pie for breakfast – it must be Christmas in Chicagoland! If you are starting shopping, or almost finished with your list, you might want to consider wrapping a few more items to put under your tree. We have gathered all of our trainers to get their best ideas for gifts for the dogs in your life, and some ideas for gifts that dog owners will love too. Whether you are shopping for your furry friend, for another human who loves dogs, or just yourself, we think we have you covered. Take a look at our favorite items this year to tie up with a bow in this year’s Dog Holiday Gift Guide.

Deer antlers – if you are already a friend of the Dog Training Now studio, you know that we love using deer antlers with our dogs. Not only are these antlers a high quality chew toy that can withstand even the sharpest puppy teeth, these guys last forever. You can pick some up right in our studio, or at your local pet supply store.

Paw ornament – Trainer Andrea suggested this sentimental gift, perfect for any dog owner. Your pet’s paw print will be on your tree forever. You can grab a kit to do it yourself, which makes it a fun DIY for the holidays.

Bark Box – Christmas can last all year long with this dog-tailored subscription service. For a monthly fee under $25, a new Bark Box will arrive at your home. It features new treats and toys each month, and is a great way to try out new things for your furry friend. We love that Trainer Mary suggested this fun subscription; we think that both you and your dog will love the mailman for bringing your Bark Box every month.

A new toy – Don’t underestimate the excitement of a new toy for your best friend. Try out a new ball to play fetch with or a durable Kong toy that will keep your dog happily occupied on his place.

Gates – Trainer Chris knows the importance of setting boundaries for family pets, and Christmas time can be the perfect time to go ahead and spend some money on gates for your home. Gates can be visual cues and reminders to your dog about where he can and cannot go, especially when he is working on his commands.

Treats – Humans aren’t the only ones who appreciate a special (and delicious) treat once in awhile. Trainer Matt recommends trying out something new and extra special to tuck under the tree for your dog – try out specialty baked items for dogs or even doggie ice cream.

Car Hammock – Give yourself the gift of a road trip with your pooch not trying to climb all over the front seat or onto your gas and brake pedals. Our own Trainer Nick suggests a car restraint hammock as the perfect gift for dogs who are often in the family car. It keeps the dog safe and keeps you free to concentrate on the driving ahead and not on what your pooch is eating under the seat.

GPS Pet Tracker – Love how technology can make your life easier? Trainer Nick goes high-tech with this gift idea – a tracker and app for your pet that allows you to locate him if he wanders off, meaning less worry and “lost dog” signs for you to hang on light posts.

Dogtek Eyenimal Camera – Ever wonder what exactly life looks like from your dog’s point of view? This lightweight camera clips right on your dog’s collar and records from that vantage point. Sync it up with your computer and find out what on earth your dog does during your time away from home.

Puzzle toy – If your dog loves a challenge – or if you need him to stay occupied while you jump on a conference call for work – Trainer Amy suggests a puzzle toy. These toys are fun, keep your pooch guessing, and can help them relax on their place when they get antsy.

A Place – Trainer Amy thinks that giving the gift of a Place for your pup will make her new “place” command even nicer for your dog. You can grab a new Mutt Mat, a new bed, or any comfy place to lounge on that isn’t too hard to move from one room to another.

Dog Training Now Gift Certificates – Did you know that you can grab gift certificates for any of our DTN services? Anyone can purchase our gift cards and use them to go towards day training, puppy preschool, or board and train packages. Trust us, the best gift you can give to your four legged best friend, and to yourself, is the gift of a well-mannered dog. The whole family can benefit from a dog who knows his place in the home, and your dog will feel more confident and happy. And don’t worry – your dog isn’t too old or too young, too aggressive or too passive, to learn commands. We’ve seen (and trained!) it all. Grab a gift card or two and start your Dog Training Now experience; we can’t wait to be a part of your family!

Now that you have our favorite items of this year, what are you waiting for? Get to shopping and let us know which items were a hit at your home this year. Fa la la la la!