Although my Christmas letter to Santa is short and simple (PJs, Buffy DVDs, gin) my list of budget-friendly holiday finds is much more exciting. Here are my top picks for dog-related gifts this holiday season and their lucky recipients:

 

• My dogs – a deluxe hanging feeder from These Creatures. These wall-mounted hanging feeders are practical and look pretty, all at the same time. Since my dogs are extra-spoiled, they’ll also each receive a pair of Pawz Dog Boots as stocking stuffers. This gift really benefits me more than it does them since it will keep my floors dry and their paws salt-free. They also double as makeshift bandages in case of paw-pad injuries which seem to occur far too often in my household.

 

• Dog-less friends and family (aka sad folk) – Magnets from Ursula Dodge. Although the Pug is my personal favourite, all of her magnets and prints are crazy cute, even for those weirdoes without a canine companion.

 

• Friends and family with dogs – The vintage Santa toy from Harry Barker. Not only is this toy a hit with dogs of any size (stuffed + squeaky = perfection) but its antique and stylish feel make it a welcome addition to any living room floor.

 

• Coworkers with dogs – Holiday themed treat canisters from Polka Dog Bakery. Let’s be honest, as long as the treats are healthy, packaging is what matters most to us humans, and I’m obsessed with the "Christmas Goose" treat canister.

 

• My nieces – DOG by Matthew Van Fleet. This adorable book entertains children (and simple minded adults such as myself) by incorporating rhymes, adorable puppies, waggable tails and peepee. Hilarious.

 

• Myself – Pop-art pet portraits by Shannon Thiesen. I have always wanted to get a portrait done of each of my dogs but thought it would surely be out of my price range. That is not the case with Shannon, her versatile and affordable charcoal, oil and acrylic pieces start at only $45 and are customized to suit your taste AND your dog’s personality!