Thoughtful gifts for a new puppy owner

When someone brings home a puppy, the leash, bowl and bed are usually handled before the puppy arrives. The best gifts fill the gaps they didn't plan for: time, help, and a way to remember the year.

Gifts that save them time

A dog-walking or pet-sitting voucher. Offer to cover a few walks or an afternoon so they can run errands. New puppy owners rarely ask for help, and they always need it.
A meal. The first weeks with a puppy are tiring. Dinner they don't have to cook is a real gift.
A training class. A group class is good for the puppy and gives the owner a chance to meet other new puppy owners.

Gifts that make life easier

Extra washable bedding and towels. There will be accidents and muddy paws.
A sturdy chew toy or two. Ask what size their puppy is so the toy is safe for them.
A good lint roller and stain remover. Not glamorous, but they'll use them every day.

Gifts they'll keep

A photo session. Puppies grow fast, and professional photos of the first months are something they'll treasure.
A framed photo of the puppy's first day. Ask for the picture, then frame it.
A memory book for the first year. Most people mean to record the first year and run out of time. A book with prompts already written makes it easy.

From Bluff Bark Publishing

My Puppy's First Year by Kimberly R. Simmons is a 120-page memory book that follows the puppy's first year in order, from coming home to a letter for the dog they're becoming. The hardcover opens flat at every page, so it's easy to write in with a puppy in your lap, and it ships in packaging suited to gifting. It works for a rescue of any age, too.

The cover of My Puppy's First Year by Kimberly R. Simmons.

If you need a gift right away, the digital edition can be given today. They fill it in on their phone, add photos, and can print it or back it up.

A note on gifting a puppy itself

A puppy is a 10- to 15-year commitment, so it's best chosen by the person who will care for it. If you're thinking of giving one, consider giving the book and a note promising to help them choose together.