Are you looking for gifts for your child who loves dogs?
Here are some considerations.
Books
There are a number of wonderful books published that teach children how to be good dog teachers and friends. Here are a few of my favorites.
May I Pet Your Dog by Stephanie Calmenson
Whether your child is afraid of dogs of loves them, May I Pet Your Dog is beautifully written
book leads readers step-by-step on how to properly greet a dog. Using Harry the dachshund as a gentle guide, children see a variety of situations and learn how to meet dogs in a positive, welcoming way.
Good Dog! Kids Teach Kids About Dog Behavior & Training by Evelyn Pang
What I love about this book is that it is written by kids for kids covering the essentials of responsible and effective dog care and t
raining.
My Dog! A Kids Guide To Keeping A Happy And Healthy Pet by Michael J. Rosen
A primer, an owner’s manual, a field guide, and more, My Dog! is the complete book for every child who has a dog―whether it’s a brand-new puppy or adopted mutt, or a beloved pooch who’s been in the family for years.
Puppy Training for Kids: Teaching Children the Responsibilities and Joys of Puppy Care, Training, and Companionship by Colleen PelarThis book uses a combination of photos and easy to read and understand 
language to share with children modern, proven, humane methods to teach their puppy or dog.
Max Talks To Me by Claire Buckwald
Alex and his dog Max are true friends—the kind that share each other’s excitement, comfort each other when they are sad, wait together when parents are away, and have fun wherever they are. Alex is learning that every good 
relationship is a two-way street. By observing and listening to his dog, by sharing good times and bad, he and Max are earning each other’s love and devotion. Parents will appreciate the information about animal communication and the dog-child bond that they will find at the end of Max Talks to Me. Children will want to share Max and Alex’s adventures and friendship over and over as they read the gentle, engaging story and look at the beautiful illustrations.
Buddy Unchained by Daisy Bix
Buddy Unchained is the 2007 winner of the Humane Society of the US KIND Award, Best Children’s Picture Book of the Year and the ASPCA HENRY BERGH AWARD, best Children’s Picture Book in the Companion Animal category. It is a very moving story of a once abandoned dog and how his being adopted into a loving home has changed his life. It reminds children of the importance of being kind to animals.
Gift certificate to for a private dog training lesson!
If you have a child and a dog, I’d love to help teach your child how to be a positive teacher to your dog. In addition to working on some basic behaviors, I will share information with you and your child about how your dog communicates, and what is a good way to interact with your dog. It’s all about strengthening your child’s bond with your dog and helping to prevent dog bites down the road.
Other Ideas
A dog stuffed animal
A donation to an animal rescue organization with a visit to the organization and maybe even volunteer outing there
A framed photo of your child’s favorite pet
Santa Paws 2: The Santa pups, the movie in DVD
NOTE: For some behind-the-scenes information on Santa Paws, please click here.
