Valentine’s Day – a holiday reserved for chocolates, flowers and curated (read: inflated) menus. But more than anything, it’s a day dedicated to showing the one you love how much they mean to you. While some may claim that that person is their significant other, we know deep down that our true loves walk on four feet.
In fact, it’s science: dog behaviourist Dr Patricia McConnell reports that dogs feel a surge of oxytocin (often called the ‘cuddle hormone’) when they interact with people. John Bradshaw, researcher and author of Dog Senseopens in a new tab, even suggests that during playtime, dogs’ oxytocin quintuples, and their endorphins and dopamine doubles.
We love our dogs almost as much as we love spoiling them, and 14 February is the perfect day to do both. Here are few ways to keep the tradition going.
Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)
Is there anything more timeless than turtlenecks and heart-print? We think not. Treat your pup to both with this eye-catching sweater, so they can feel the warmth and comfort of your love.
How about a pink lead to match your pup’s new harness? Found My Animal’s offering is as versatile as they come: you can use it as a standard lead or wrap it around your waist for a hands-free option. It even gives you the ability to walk two dogs at once with a simple knot in the centre.
This sleepy toy isn’t just adorable – it’s also a tried-and-tested method for calming nervous pups. The toy has a ‘real-feel’ pulse that eases anxiety and helps reduce stress. If your dog gets the mid-February blues, this just might help them feel better.
Dogs spend half their day sleepingopens in a new tab, so they should be as festive and comfortable as possible while they’re doing so. Sure, dog beds can be expensive, but so was your Peloton, and you definitely aren’t spending 12 to 14 hours a day on that (that would be excessive).
Let’s be honest: the most thoughtful gift you can get your dog for this holiday is something they can gnaw on. This is definitely a better chew-toy option than the formal tablecloth you put out for romantic dinners.
Unless you started making calls or snagged that Resy in late 2023, securing a dinner reservation on Valentine’s Day can be a daunting task. While they’re best suited for a post-meal dessert, these treats will remind your dog (and possibly you) of the benefits of eating in on major holidays.
Your dog may not be able to enjoy the real thing (no chocolate allowedopens in a new tab!), but they can safely dig into these plush chocolate strawberries.
Your dog is about the be crazy in love with this lick mat. It’s soothing, entertaining and actually encourages them to clean up their mess. And let’s face it: this is the only time that is going to happen.
Another fiery red harness for your consideration. If you’ve ever used Wild One’s products, you know they don’t skimp on quality, and your dog deserves quality today and every day.
This is for the real ones throwing their pets a full Valentine’s Day party. Roses, hearts, champagne – what else do you need? As a special added gift, the filling of each toy is made from 100 percent post-consumer certified-safe recycled plastic bottles.
Sean Zucker is a writer whose work has been featured in Points In Case, The Daily Drunk, Posty, and WellWell. He has an adopted Pit Bull named Banshee whose work has been featured on the kitchen floor and whose behavioral issues rival his own.
