More than a quarter of animal-lovers risk buying their pets Christmas presents that could harm their health or encourage misbehaviour, an animal expert has warned.
According to research conducted by NEXT, two in five Brits are willing to spend more than £50 on the perfect gift for their furry friends. But 28 per cent of owners are unaware of which treats are suitable for their pet’s age and personality – with more than a third (35%) selecting presents exclusively on appearance.
While owners may be motivated by the best intentions, showering pets in poorly selected gifts risks triggering stomach complaints or even choking. Luckily Tasha Lewis, director at animal handling agency Living Things, has outlined her top tips to pamper our pets safely this season.
Consider your pet’s breed and size
“It’s very important to consider the toy’s durability and safety based on the pet’s size, breed, and play style,” says Tasha Lewis, director at animal handling agency Living Things. “For example, a nylon toy might be perfect for a small dog but could be a choking hazard for a large breed with a powerful bite.”
Gifting should be age-appropriate
As with humans, the presents that we buy for our pets throughout their lifetime will change as they age. Puppies need smaller, softer treats like nylon chew toys to fit comfortably in their mouths and provide comfort during the teething process.
By contrast, older dogs prefer gentler toys as their teeth and jaw strength weakens. In terms of snacks, Tasha recommends choosing “treats that are lower in fat and easier to digest” for older dogs, to avoid triggering the digestive issues that become more common later in life.
While dogs enjoy degrees of rough-and-tumble play throughout their lives, Tasha explains that kittens require a different approach entirely. “Kittens are full of energy and love interactive toys like string or feather wands,” she advises. “These toys help keep them engaged and stimulate their natural hunting instincts.”
Less is sometimes more
“A common mistake when choosing pet gifts is overwhelming pets with too many toys at once,” says Tasha. She explains that pets often become attached to a favourite item, so offering a large selection can be counterproductive. Instead, the pet whisperer recommends rotating toys periodically, as only using one or two at a time will maintain their interest.
Avoid pre-made stockings
Premade holiday stockings include a selection of toys and treats, but this variety can spell trouble for some pets. Certain treats may contain ingredients that aren’t ideal for sensitive stomachs, and certain toys might not be safe for larger pets. “Instead, creating a custom stocking tailored to your pet’s likes and needs is a better and more personalised option,” advises Tasha.
The expert also urges pet owners to be cautious of rawhide products, which can pose a choking risk or prove to be indigestible. “When in doubt, always opt for high-quality, non-toxic, and appropriately sized items,” she stresses.
Opt for gifts that promote positive behaviour
As the holidays are an opportunity to look ahead to New Year’s resolutions, many owners may want to pick gifts that will help to train their pets. The ideal present to encourage positive behaviour will vary depending on an animal’s species, breed, and individual needs, so you should go for a treat that matches your pet’s abilities.
Tasha explains that healthy treats are a great tool to reward obedience, while chew toys and interactive games are effective sources of mental and physical stimulation for more energetic pets. “These gifts not only make pets happy but also help reinforce positive behaviour, creating a fun, wholesome and enjoyable experience for them,” she adds.
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