Shopping for a small dog at Christmas is mostly about scale. A toy that suits a Labrador disappears into a Chihuahua's bed, and a coat cut for a medium dog will twist on a toy breed. These stocking stuffer ideas are all sized with small dogs and puppies in mind, and most of them will still be useful long after the wrapping paper is gone.
1. A Christmas plush toy
A plush toy is the classic stocking stuffer for dogs. Our Christmas reindeer plush dog toy is about 40 cm tall, with long knotted rope limbs and crinkle paper inside the body. The rope legs make it a good tug toy, and the crinkle keeps puppies interested. Like any plush, it is best used for supervised play.
2. Something warm for winter walks
Small dogs lose heat faster than large ones, so a winter layer is a gift they will actually use. Two fleece vest options, depending on the style you prefer:
- Fleece dog vest with leash hole: covers the chest and back, fastens on the back so it goes on without lifting the legs, and has an opening for a harness. Camel or off-white, sizes S–3XL.
- Colour-block fleece dog vest: a sleeveless fleece jacket with a chest pocket and a D-ring for the leash, for walks or lounging at home. Sizes S–XXL.
3. A new harness and leash set
If your dog's walking gear is looking tired, a new set makes a practical present. Our plaid dog harness and leash set comes with a harness, lead and clip-on waste bag holder, with reflective thread woven through for darker evening walks. It comes in five colours and sizes S–XL, and the tartan-style check looks right for the season.
Tips for filling a dog's stocking
- Measure before you buy clothing. Chest girth behind the front legs and back length from the base of the neck to the tail are the two numbers that matter. Check each product's size guide.
- Match the toy to the mouth. If a toy can fit entirely in your dog's mouth, choose a bigger one.
- Supervise new toys. Watch the first few play sessions and take away a toy once it starts to come apart.
- Order early. Check our shipping times for your country before choosing a gift for Christmas morning.
For a cold-weather outfit rather than a stocking filler, see our dog Christmas outfit guide.
