The 17 Best Dog Birthday Gifts To Celebrate Your Special Pup

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You’ve got the best dog ever, so, of course, you want to give them the best dog birthday gifts ever! And our list of presents for dogs will get those ideas rolling in your mind and make shopping a little easier. But it’s not just about the birthdays; Gotcha days need celebrating too! So whether you’re celebrating the day you brought your furry one home or the day they were born, give our list a scroll, choose the gifts you know your dog will love, and check buying dog birthday presents off your party planning list!

And here’s another way to celebrate—Register your dog’s birthday with iHeartDogs Birthday Club for a FREE gift today and a special discount on your pup’s birthday!

The 17 Best Dog Birthday Gifts for Your Precious Pup

#1 – Fresh Mint Scented Brushing Dog Bone Toy

Give your dog the gift of fresh breath and enjoy those wet kisses once again! This natural rubber chew toy has a mint scent that freshens breath as your pup chews. The soft rubber bristles feel good on teeth while reaching deep for a good clean. Add toothpaste for extra cleaning or treats to make it even more fun! And as always with iHeartDogs, the purchase of this chew toy also funds the donation of a toy to an animal shelter.

Pros

• Hard chewer approved
• Dishwasher safe
• Durable but soft enough not to hurt teeth
• Freshens breath

Cons

• Some dogs may not care for the miny scent

#2 – BarkBox

A BarkBox subscription box is the dog birthday gift that keeps on giving! After you sign up, your furry buddy will receive a monthly box with plush toys, treats, chews, and some surprise activities and games. Or just choose to receive one box to celebrate your pup’s birthday, and you’ll still get all those goodies inside.

Pros

• Cute and durable plush toys
• Wide variety of products
• Great way to sample treats and chews
• Over 2 million customers

Cons

• Some customers report difficulty canceling subscriptions

#3 – Bocce’s Bakery Birthday Cake Treats for Dogs

Also available at Petco.com

Celebrate your pup’s special day with a sweet treat containing only oat flour, peanut butter, carob, vanilla, and molasses! And with wheat, corn, and soy-free recipes that never include artificial ingredients or preservatives, it’s a treat you’ll both feel good about. Serve these crunchy biscuits as one of your dog’s Gotcha Day gifts or birthday gifts, and watch them light up.

Pros

• Great taste
• Only five ingredients with no wheat, corn, or soy
• Nothing fake
• Affordably priced
• Other flavors available
• 18-month shelf life

Cons

• Dogs who don’t enjoy sweet tastes may not like them

#4 – Puppy Scoops Ice Cream Mix for Dogs

And what pairs well with birthday cake? Ice cream, of course! Puppy Scoops gives your birthday buddy a delicious and healthy frozen treat made with all-natural ingredients, including lactose-free whole milk, evaporated cane juice, gelatin, and natural flavors. It’s also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It’s an easy-to-make birthday treat for dogs they’ll love!

Pros

• Dogs love the taste and experience
• Easy preparation
• Grain-free
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Takes about 5 hours to freeze completely

#5 – Jumbo & Durable Tug ‘n Pull Rope Toy

Fun is the name of the game on your pup’s special day, and this 21-inch rope toy will deliver! If your dog loves to play tug-of-war, this thick, durable rope will withstand even the most vigorous back and forth. Knotted at both ends to make loops, it’s easy for you and your dog to grip and pull.

Pros

• No fraying or ripping
• Strong and durable cotton
• Long length
• Knots are great for chewing

Cons

• Can be a little large for small dogs
• May not be suitable for aggressive chewers

#6 – Squishmallows 20-Inch Beula Octopus Pet Bed

OMG, a Squishmallows bed for dogs?!? Yes, please! These cute and comfy beds are perfect for gotcha day gifts or birthday gifts for dogs. They’re made of soft, plush fabric that is both comfortable and durable. The raised sides of the bed also create a natural headrest for maximum comfort. Choose from Beula the Octopus, Gordon the Shark, Maui the Pineapple, and Wendy the Frog.

Pros

• Soft, plush fabric
• Oh-so-adorable
• Durable and built to last
• Raised sides create a natural headrest
• Great for small dogs and cats
• Good value for a collectible brand

Cons

• Spot clean only; not machine washable
• May not accommodate larger dogs

Related: The 9 Best Beds for Senior Dogs

#7 – Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy

Better your dog’s brain with an interactive dog toy that will make them think for those treats! It’s a birthday gift for dogs that gives them the food they love and the mental exercise they need. And it can also help ease anxiety by giving your little worry wart something to focus on. Just hide their favorite treats inside and watch that snooper go to work.

Pros

• Great for challenging canine minds
• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Changeable difficulty level

Cons

• May be too hard for treat puzzle beginners
• Not for extreme chewers

#8 – Custom Catch Personalized Dog Mat

For their birthday or Gotcha Day, present your pup with this cute personalized cushion for some comfy napping. Stuffed full with 100% polyester, this comfy mat is great for the floor, couch, car, or inside their crate. The attractive color options allow you to match your pup’s pillow to your home and help hide shedding. Plus, it’s machine washable. However, drying in the dryer make cause shrinkage.

Pros

• Great for kennels and travel
• Machine washable
• Personalization will not fade or peel
• Durable and soft
• Affordably priced

Cons

• Not dryer-friendly

#9 – Good Girl Happy Birthday Cake Toy

Treat your birthday girl to an impawssibly cute cake toy that’s complete with cute sprinkles, frosting, and a candle! While she can’t eat this cake, your dog will still love celebrating with a good chew. And it squeaks for even more fun! Plus, one toy bought means one toy donated to shelter dogs.

Pros

• Soft
• Machine washable
• Suitable for dogs of all sizes

Cons

• None, it’s just a cute toy

#10 – Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks Birthday Dog Treats

What a festive way to say Happy Birthday to the dog you love so much! This cute 36 oz. celebration tin comes packed with crunchy bone-shaped treats in five flavors: Bacon, Beef, Chicken, Sausage, and Turkey. Plus, crunching on these birthday bones will freshen their breath and reduce tartar while providing twelve vitamins and minerals.

Pros

• Brand dogs know and love
• Resealable package
• Cute container for later storage
• Five flavors

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs on limited diets

#11 – Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy

Also available at Petco.com

Dogs who love to chew will adore this durable, long-lasting chew toy with a wishbone shape that makes it easy for them to hold with their paws. It’s made with real bacon flavor and constructed of nylon for maximum durability. Plus, it’s easy to clean; simply wash it with soap and warm water to keep it free from dirt and bacteria.

Pros

• Durable and long-lasting
• Real bacon flavor
• Great value
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Pieces can break off, keep an eye on your dog while using

#12 – HERO DOG Heavy Duty Paracord

Here’s a great birthday gift for the best dog, the best dog collar ever! The ultra-rugged nylon webbing base with double box stitched ends and alloy metal hardware will stand up to the toughest dogs. And if the need ever arises, you and your best buddy will have 7 to 18 feet of 550 paracord on hand, thanks to this handsome collar. And for every collar sold, we donate 20% of the proceeds to help pair Veterans with shelter or service dogs.

Pros

• Lightweight
• High-quality construction
• Shows your American pride
• Functional and nice looking
• Easy to clean
• Resists mold, rot, and mildew

Cons

• Only one color available

#13 – ChuckIt! Ultra Ball

Also available at Petco.com

Help your pup have a ball on their birthday by playing fetch with these durable rubber balls. And because they’re buoyant, you can use them for fetch in the water. The bright orange and blue colors will help them stand out, making them easy to find. They’re perfect for dogs of all sizes, with five different size options. To clean, simply wipe away dirt and slobber with a damp cloth. Works with the ChuckIt ball launcher.

Pros

• Durable
• Buoyant for water fetch fun
• Easy to clean
• Bright colors

Cons

• May not stand up to strong chewers

#14 – ChuckIt! Paraflight Flyer Dog Frisbee

Also available at Petco.com

If fetching a ball isn’t their thing, maybe your pup will like a high-flying chase instead! This dog frisbee has an aerodynamic shape that will send your dog running for long distances, providing them with plenty of exercise. Plus, it floats for fun in the pool, lake, river, or ocean. And the soft material won’t hurt sensitive mouths.

Pros

• Won’t hurt teeth or gums
• Highly visible and buoyant
• Easy to clean
• Available in two colors

Cons

• Not for dogs who chew

#15 – goDog Bubble Plush Dragons Squeaky Dog Toy

Also available at Petco.com

Let your dog slay this cute dragon for some extra birthday fun! Because this dragon dog toy is soft, it’s great for play or cuddling. And the squeaker inside makes it even more enticing for a good chew. And it can withstand those canine chompers because it’s made with GoDog’s proprietary Chew Guard Technology.

Pros

• So many cute colors
• A size for every dog
• Durable enough for larger dogs

Cons

• A little pricey

#16 – Boredom Buster Lick Mat for Dog Anxiety

Gorging on a birthday feast isn’t good for dog tummies, so give your pup a slow feeding experience that will leave them savoring something tasty rather than gulping it down! This fun slow feeder mat is also great for anxious dogs and those who get antsy during baths. Stick it to a flat surface and watch them get that doggy tongue in every nook and cranny for every last morsel.

Pros

• Easy to wash
• Suction cups hold it in place
• Helps with anxiety or when you need to distract
• Made from safe, non-toxic materials
• Great price

Cons

• None, it’s an all-around win

 

#17 – BestPet 3 Wheels Pet Stroller

This lightweight, easy-to-fold, and affordable stroller means you can take your dog for a Gotcha Day or birthday celebration in the sun! It’s excellent and easy to maneuver for everyday walks, trips to the park, or even long hikes. The front wheels swivel for easy pivoting, and the rear wheels are lockable for added stability. Your pup will enjoy lots of room to get comfy inside while the mesh windows let them enjoy the view outside.

Pros

• Great for travel
• Affordable price
• Easy to assemble
• Rolls well and turns easily
• Lightweight at only 11 lbs.
• Folds down fast

Cons

• Not suitable for large dogs
• Some assembly required

Buying Guide: Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Dog Birthday Gifts

You’ll want to choose a gift that matches your dog’s personality, interests, and lifestyle. A good rule of thumb is to consider what you know about your dog’s likes and dislikes and select a gift they will enjoy and get use out of. Here are some factors to consider when shopping for the best dog birthday gifts:

Age

Consider your dog’s age when selecting a gift. Puppies may enjoy interactive toys and chew toys, while older dogs may prefer something softer and more comfortable, like a new bed or a cozy blanket.

Size and Breed

Your dog’s size should be considered when selecting a gift. A small dog may enjoy a stuffed toy, while a larger dog may prefer a durable chew toy. Also, think about your dog’s breed. Some breeds enjoy certain types of toys or activities more than others. Research your dog’s breed to get an idea of what they might want.

Interest and Activity Level

Is your dog an active pup always looking to be entertained? Or are they a mellow soul who loves the chill life? If your dog loves tug-of-war or fetch, a new ball or rope toy could be a good choice. If your dog prefers a quieter lifestyle, a new plush toy or treat dispenser might be more appropriate.

Also, consider your dog’s activity level. A high-energy pup may enjoy an agility course or outdoor play equipment, while a more laid-back dog may prefer a comfortable bed or a cozy sweater.

Safety

Always consider the safety of any toy or treat you give your dog. Make sure the toy is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level and is made from non-toxic materials.

FAQs about Dog Birthday Gifts

Should you celebrate your dog’s birthday?

Celebrating your dog’s birthday is totally up to you. Many dog parents choose to celebrate their dog’s birthday or adoption day as a way to show their love and appreciation for their furry companion. It can be a fun way to bond with your dog and create special memories.

And remember, the celebration doesn’t have to be a grand affair—it can be as simple as baking a special dog-friendly cake or giving them a new toy. However, it’s important to keep in mind that dogs don’t understand the concept of birthdays or celebrations and may not understand why they’re being showered with attention or gifts.

Ultimately, if you enjoy celebrating your dog’s birthday and it brings joy to you and your furry friend, go for it! Just make sure to prioritize their safety and well-being when planning any special activities or treats.

How do you spoil your dog on their birthday?

Depending on their personality and preferences, there are many ways to spoil your dog on their birthday. Here are some ideas:

• Special Treats – Bake or buy your furry friend a special birthday cake or a batch of dog-friendly cupcakes.
• New Toys – Get your dog a new toy or two to add to their collection. You can opt for interactive toys like puzzle games or a plush toy your dog can play with and snuggle.
• Take a Hike – If your dog likes to be outdoors, take them on an adventure hike for their special day. Bring a picnic lunch and lots of water to make it a fun-filled day.
• Day at the Spa – Treat your dog to a day at a local pet spa, and pamper them with a massage or a relaxing bath.
• Get Dressed Up – Dress up your dog in a special birthday outfit or bandana, and take lots of photos to mark the occasion.
• Cozy Time – Dogs love cuddling, too, so take some time to snuggle with your pup or give them a cozy bed.
• A Day of New Experiences – Plan a day full of new experiences, like visiting a pet-friendly restaurant, taking your dog to the beach, or having a picnic at the park.

Related: 12 Best Dog Beds

What is Gotcha Day?

Gotcha Day, also known as Adoption Day, is traditionally celebrated by fur parents who have adopted their dogs from a shelter or rescue organization. However, the notion is a great way to celebrate the day you brought your dog home, whether from a shelter, a friend, or any other means. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the bond between you and your furry friend and show them how much they mean to you. So, regardless of how you came to be together, if you want to celebrate the day you got your dog, go for it!

Where can I find a dog birthday cake recipe?

The internet is littered with various recipes for dog birthday cakes. When choosing your recipe, keep your dog’s food sensitivities in mind. And if you’d rather not hunt for the perfect recipe, search for boxed cake mixes designed for dogs or check out The Dos And Don’ts Of Making Delicious, Dog-Safe Cakes!

Now that you’ve got those online shopping carts full of gifts for your dog’s special day don’t forget to register your dog’s birthday with iHeartDogs Birthday Club for a FREE gift today and a special discount on your pup’s birthday!

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.