Gifts for Pet Lovers Under $40: 20 Ideas for Dog and Cat People

Make Today Count Pet Tank Top, photo 2

Pet people are some of the easiest people to shop for, because they love to talk about their animals. The trick is to choose something that shows you noticed. A small gift that mentions their dog or cat, or something that makes life with a pet a little easier, almost always lands well.

Below are 20 ideas under $40, split into gifts for the pet, gifts for the owner and a few small extras. Everything here is practical, and none of it needs a veterinarian’s advice.

Before you buy: four quick checks

  1. Know the species and rough size. A bandana that suits a small dog may not suit a large one. Check the size chart on the product page before you order.
  2. Think about comfort. Some pets love wearing clothes and some tolerate them for a photo. If you are unsure, choose a gift for the owner instead.
  3. Pick things that get used. A food mat or a mug gets used every day, and a novelty item often does not.
  4. Use the pet’s name. A card that mentions the pet by name matters more than the gift itself.
Pet tank top with an inspirational message
Gifts for the pet should be comfortable first and cute second.

Gifts for the pet

  1. A pet bandana with a gentle message. It is light, easy to put on and perfect for photos.
  2. A pet tank top for a dog who likes clothes. Look at the size chart and measure the chest first.
  3. A pet food mat that keeps the kitchen floor clean. It is the kind of useful item most owners do not buy for themselves.
  4. A new collar tag, a favorite chew or a small bag of treats as a simple extra.
  5. A soft bed or blanket. A cozy one is also a good match for the owner, see plush versus sherpa blankets.
Pet food mat with a short message
A food mat is practical, and it is one of the easiest pet gifts to get right.

Gifts for the owner

Many pet owners spend more on the pet than on themselves. A small gift for them is often the most appreciated one.

  1. A ceramic mug for the morning walk coffee. Not sure which size? Read 11oz versus 15oz mugs.
  2. A sherpa blanket for the sofa, where the pet will probably also sit.
  3. A canvas tote bag for treats, toys and a water bottle. See canvas tote bag care and uses.
  4. A keyring for the house keys, which are always in a hurry on the way to the park.
  5. A fridge magnet for the vet reminder card or a favorite photo.
  6. A soy candle for the evening after a long day. A tip for better burning is in how to make a candle last longer.
  7. A slim water bottle to carry on walks.
Pet bandana with a gentle message
A bandana is light, simple and easy to photograph.

Small extras under $15

  1. A pin button for a bag or jacket. See pin button, magnet and keyring ideas.
  2. A vinyl decal for a car window or a water bottle.
  3. A sticker for a laptop or a notebook.
  4. A framed photo of the pet, printed at home.
  5. A handwritten card with a short story about the pet.

Ideas by budget

What to avoid

  • Food or treats without asking about allergies or diets.
  • Costumes for pets who dislike being dressed.
  • Anything with small parts that can be chewed off.
  • Gifts that need a specific size when you do not know it.

Planning and timing

Our items are made to order. Production takes about 3 to 5 business days, and non-apparel items usually need roughly two extra business days before shipping. Check the Christmas 2026 order-by dates for the last safe day to order.

Gifts for pet lovers: FAQ

What is a good gift for someone who just got a pet?

A food mat, a bandana and a card with a welcome message are small, useful and fun. A cozy blanket for the owner is a thoughtful addition.

Should I buy clothes for someone else’s pet?

Only if you know the pet likes them. A bandana is the safest choice, because it is light and easy to take off.

What if I do not know the pet’s size?

Choose a gift for the owner, or ask the owner for a quick measurement. It is better to ask than to guess.

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