Top 4 Housewarming Gifts for Dog Lovers

• Written on October 03, 2017 By Stanley Martin Homes

When someone moves into a new home, it's customary for friends and family to bring a housewarming gift. If you know someone who has a dog or two and just bought a new home, and you want to give them something other than the usual potted plant, a dog-themed housewarming gift is a great idea!

A Gift Certificate to the Local Groomer
Dogs are a wonderful addition to any home, but the hair they leave behind can get on the nerves of even the most devoted dog lover! The best way to stay in control of dog hair is daily brushing, but another positive way to limit hair (and also minimize that all-too-familiar "dog smell") are regular visits to the groomers. Giving new homeowners a gift certificate to take Fido to their favorite groomer is bound to be appreciated. As new homeowners, they'll have lots of little expenses that quickly add up. Having a free trip or two to the dog groomer will make those first months a little easier on their pocketbook.

A New Dog Bed
To go along with that well-groomed dog, how about adding a dog bed? A fresh new dog bed gives clean-smelling Fido somewhere to rest when the new homeowners are busy unpacking boxes and moving furniture. This way, when they tell Fido to "Go lie down!", at least he'll have his own special place to go. There are many types of dog beds to choose from these days. You could opt for an elevated pet cot, a thick dog blanket, a large fluffy dog-sized pillow, or an orthopedic memory foam. Toss in a new chew-toy or two and Fido will be your friend forever when you visit your friends in their new home.

A Framed Picture of Their Pet
Here's a fun idea: Find a favorite picture of their pet, scan it to your computer, and then upload it to one of the many online sites that transform photos into beautiful framed art. Many drugstore photo departments also offer this service. If you can find a good photo with Fido and his owners, all the better! As we all know, doggies are only with us for a short time. A framed photo of their furry friend will bring the homeowners joy for many years to come, and offer a special way to remember him.

A Basket of Dog-Themed Libations
The next gift is strictly for the homeowners and not their dog! Head to the nearest liquor store and ask the staff to point you in the direction of the many brewers whose brand names or beer are dog-related. You may even find dog related wine labels. Another fun idea is to buy the ingredients to make dog-themed drinks. A quick search on the Internet will lead you to recipes for drinks like The Chihuahua, The Bloodhound, or The Bulldog. Add a few beer mugs or cocktail glasses in the gift basket and you'll be good to go.

These are just a few ideas for dog-themed housewarming gifts, but you could also purchase items such as a dog-inspired welcome mat, a blanket with dogs on it, or a set of new dog bowls. And, if it's near the holidays, a DVD of Old Yeller, Turner and Hooch, or Beethoven. (Probably a good idea to stay away from Cujo, though.)

Happy shopping!

• in Raleigh/Durham