Quick answer: The best gifts for a new puppy owner are practical and fun: a few good toys, a lick mat, some tasty treats, and a collar or gift card so they can pick what suits their pup. Below is a simple guide grouped by budget, using current Barke. Collection prices.
What makes a good puppy gift
New puppy owners are busy, a little sleep deprived and usually buying lots of things at once. The most welcome gifts are ones that make the first few weeks easier: something to chew or sniff, something to keep a puppy busy and something to reward good behaviour.
If you want to give something to go with the move, our first week with a new puppy checklist shows what owners really need. You can also browse our puppy essentials collection.
Under $25: small treats and tasty extras
Treats make a lovely small gift. Our Barke. Treats range is made in Australia, and each product shows a chew level so you can see how soft or tough it is:
- Premium Beef Liver 80g, a soft chew level 1 treat, at $13.95
- Premium Kangaroo Jerky 80g, a chew level 2 treat, at $20.95
Puppies have small mouths and developing tummies, so the owner should check what suits their pup and supervise treat time. To understand the levels, see our dog chew levels guide, or browse the full Barke. Treats collection.
$25 to $50: toys and a lick mat
This is the sweet spot for most gifts. Lambwolf Collective toys are designed to be fun for sniffing, squeaking and carrying around the house, and we are the official Australian stockist.
- Squirrel Pop, a squeaky and bouncy toy, at $32.99
- Mini Baguette, a crinkly and squeaky toy, at $32.99
- Artichoke, a soft snuffle toy, at $32.99
- LOVE Lick Mat in Brick at $45.99, handy for quiet time
Soft toys are for supervised play. If the pup is teething, our guide to the best toys for teething puppies will help you choose.
$50 and over: a collar, a bigger toy or a gift card
- Handmade Australian Leather Collar at $69. Puppies grow fast, so this suits an owner who is happy to size up later.
- Trout, a burrow and snuffle toy, at $60.99
- The Barke. eGift Card, from $50, when you are not sure what the puppy already has
Our walk and collar collection has more options, and our handmade leather collars and leads are made in Australia.
Gifting tips
- Ask the owner what the puppy already has, so you do not double up.
- Choose a mix of toy types: something to chew, something to sniff and something to squeak.
- Pair a small gift with a gift card, so the owner can top up on whatever turns out to be most useful.
- Remember that treats, personalised items, gift cards and sale items are not returnable, while most other items have 60 day returns.
- Shipping within Australia is from $9.95, with dispatch in 0 to 2 business days and delivery in 2 to 7 business days.
Looking for something for a wider group of dog lovers? Our Christmas gift guide for dogs has more ideas.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good gift for someone with a new puppy?
A toy, a lick mat or a bag of treats is a safe pick. If you are unsure, a gift card lets them choose what their puppy needs.
Should I buy a collar as a puppy gift?
It can be a nice gift, but puppies grow quickly and sizing matters. A gift card is an easy option if you are not sure of the size.
Are treats suitable for puppies?
Many puppies enjoy treats, but each puppy is different. Check with your vet about what suits your pup and supervise treat time.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
