Holiday Shopping Guide 2013: Great Gifts for Dog Lovers

New Work of Dogs

In The New Work of Dogs, author and journalist Jon Katz profiles a dozen relationships of dogs to humans in a New Jersey town. This moving explorations offers a portrait of a community, and by extension a country, that is turning to its pets for emotional support and stability. It is a must read for any dog lover.

Price: $6.98

Buy it from: All Booked Up. 799 Tiogue Avenue, Coventry. (401) 826-3700.

Tough Toys

Dog toys can be relatively expensive, especially when dogs shred plush chew toys apart the day they get them. This year give the gift of a durable and lasting chew toy. In a variety of shapes and sizes, durable toys make great gifts for pet lovers who are simply tired from replacing toys. Try the popular and durable Kong Dog Toy or the Petstages Durable Stick.

Price: $4.99 and up

Buy it from: Petco. 585 North Main Street, Providence. (401) 454-4956.

Pet Portraits

A picture is worth one thousand barks. This holiday season pass along the gift of Zimi Photography's experienced pet portraits. With a fabulous new portrait of their little angel, your dog-loving friends are sure to look forward to holiday gifts from you year after year.

Price: $95 and up

Buy it from: Zimi Photography. (401) 340-5222.

Photo: Flickr/Brambleberries Photography

Dog Themed Picture Frames

For a quick, easy, and glorious gift head down to local Bed, Bath, and Beyond to pick out a dog themed picture frame.

Price: $9.99 and up

Buy it from: Bed Bath and Beyond. 24 Providence Pl M1, Providence. (401) 270-4540

Photo: Flickr/Ghentoo

Gourmet Dog Treats

This holiday season surprise  the dog lover in your life with customized dog treats. At Providence's Jack's Snacks, the possibilities are endless. With customizable dog treats ranging in various shapes and sizes your unique present will be the talk of the town. You can even keep you pooch happy all year long by singing up for Jack's Biscuit of the Month Club.

Price: varies per custom order

Buy it from: Jack's Snacks. 1860 Broad Street, Cranston. (401) 467-2601

Photo: Flickr/Kitay

Doggie Day Spa

Put your dirty pup in the expert hands of North Providence's Green Paw Spa. At the Green Paw Spa, dogs are treated to a day of full relaxation. Services include full service grooming, bath and brush, sani and pedi, teeth brushing, and even a blueberry facial. Contact the spa to set up a date and time to have your friends pup scrubbed and pampered.

Price: Dependent on dog

Buy it from: Green Paw Spa. 1775 Mineral Spring Avenue in North Providence. (401) 793-0701.

Photo: Flickr/Marioanima

Dog Bowls

Spoil your friends’ dogs this holiday season with an ornate and elevated set of dog bowls. With a classy look and an heir of practicality, your friends will rave about the comfort of their beloved pets as well as having the most sophisticated bowls on the block.

Price: $12.99 and up

Buy it from: Bed, Bath and Beyond. 24 Providence Pl M1, Providence. (401) 270-4540.

Photo: Flickr/_tar0_

Sports Apparel for Dogs

If your friends love their sports just as much as they love their dog, then dog sports apparel is the perfect gift for them. Pick up Patriots and Red Sox attire from your local Petco for dogs of all sizes. This gift is sure to be a fan pleaser.

Price: $26.99

Buy it from: Petco. 585 North Main Street, Providence. (401) 454-4956.

Photo: Flickr/Mike Licht

Doggie Gym Membership

Gyms aren't just for humans anymore. Located in Glendale, CHI (canine human interaction) Fit Club offers a variety of doggie fitness options including dog treadmills, pack walking, hiking, street walking, and swimming. CHI also provides a Dog Cab service, which offers pick up and delivery.

Price: $300 for 1-year membership. Other memberships and discounts are available.

Buy it from: CHI Fit Club. 150 North Shore Road, Glendale. (401) 692-1047.

Photo: Flickr/_tar0_

Reflective Safety Vest

Safety is always key. Any dog-lover will be privy to receiving a reflective safety vest for their very own canine companion. The reflective safety vest, similar to the vests the construction workers wear, keep peoples’ eyes on your dog. Great for late night walks.

Price: $9.99 and up

Buy it from: Petco. 585 North Main Street, Providence. (401) 454-4956.

Photo: Flickr/Megan Ann