Choose a Gift For a Dog Lover

Find out if he or she has a favorite breed. That will narrow it down. Then go the breed specific route. If they're fond of mixed breeds or have no favorite, look for something more general, or perhaps something related to animal rescue.

Steer clear of gifts like Jack Russell salt & pepper shakers or a handmade, wood carved scepter bearing the head of a Welsh Corgi (even though the eyes are real rubies)…and opt for something a little more neutral, a little more functional...unless you know for a fact that this person is King or Queen Kitsch. How about a hand painted doormat with a picture of their dog's breed? You can find these online. Everyone needs a doormat, and it’s probably something you’re not in danger of duplicating.

Pick out something unique as well as functional. Crafts fairs are good places to find handmade, one-of-a-kind items and artsy-craftsy types usually love dogs (not that that's not a bad thing).

Hit animal organization websites that sell unique dog-themed gifts. The Animal Rescue Site donates a percentage of each item purchased to feeding homeless animals. This way you're doing two good deeds at once. (see Resources below)

Buy a book...that's usually a good safe gift. There are a wide variety on all things dog from healthcare to raising every breed imaginable. Or how about a book filled with great photos of dogs for the coffee table?

Check out greeting card stores, especially if you're running out of time. I found myself in that predicament two days before Christmas. I had been searching for a gift for a Welsh Corgi lover to no avail. I happened to pass a greeting card store and decided to give it a shot. I walked in, peeked inside the glass showcase by the counter...and TADA! The cutest little Welshi Corgi figurine was looking up at me begging to be taken home for the holidays.