Dusseldorf. When it gets colder outside, the fairy lights shine and the family gathers together, many dog owners ask themselves the same question: What can I give my four-legged companion so that he too feels how special this time is? Three employees of Agria Tierversicherung from Düsseldorf reveal their favorite gift ideas: personally chosen, inspired by their own dogs and their everyday work.
1. Activity toys to combat winter boredom
For Sarah Wollenweber, marketing coordinator at Agria Tierversicherung in Düsseldorf and an enthusiastic dog mom herself, meaningful employment opportunities definitely belong under the Christmas tree. “Especially in winter, when walks are shorter, activity toys are worth their weight in gold. Sniffing games or small brain teasers keep dogs mentally fit and make even cloudy days exciting. For me, they are one of the most sensible gifts because they give you something to do and enjoy, no matter what the weather is.”
2. Discover new dog sports together
“I love trying out new things with my dogs. Be it Treibball, agility, dog scooter or mantrailing. There is a suitable sport for every dog's personality. A trial course at Christmas is a wonderful gift that at the same time gives us time together, exercise and small experiences of success. This way you start the new year with a lot of motivation,” says Sarah Wollenweber.
3. Homemade dog biscuits: healthy, delicious and a nice Advent ritual
Claudia Bohne, nutritionist for dogs and sales agent at Agria, places particular emphasis on nutrition, even on holidays: “As a nutritionist, animal nutrition is particularly important to me, even on holidays. But of course it can also be tasty – that's why I have homemade, healthy treats for my dog.”
“For me, homemade cookies are simply part of the Christmas season,” she continues. “Using a baking mat, you can make healthy dog treats yourself quickly and cheaply. On Advent Sundays I like to try out new recipes, it's fun and allows my supply of treats to grow for the holidays. And of course my dog Pepper Pig is the most happy.”
4. Bring lights into the dark
In addition to healthy enjoyment, visibility in winter is particularly important to Claudia: “I like practical gifts and love giving reflective harnesses or collars, including to friends with dogs. Not only do they look beautiful, they increase safety in traffic enormously. Especially now, when many walks take place in the dark, they are a great gift that really makes a visible difference.”
5. Invest in health care:
A Gift that gives security
For Vera Lange-Stanka, Insurance Specialist and Underwriter at Agria, the most valuable gift is one that ensures lifelong health.
“Dog health insurance is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give,” she says. “In my daily work, I see how quickly something can happen. An accident while playing, a sudden illness, an injury that no one expected. That's exactly why my own dog Emilia is insured. Good insurance provides security in an emergency and the reassuring certainty that you don't have to think twice if medical help is needed.”
6. A plus in safety for all dogs:
A GPS dog tracker
Also close to Vera's heart is a gift that many owners only think about at second glance: a GPS tracker. “A GPS tracker really makes sense for every dog,” emphasizes Vera. “Even the best-trained dogs can get frightened and suddenly start running. Whether it's because of shots in the forest, a thunderstorm or New Year's Eve fireworks. A tracker helps to find the dog again quickly and gives dog owners like us a lot of peace of mind. For me, it's one of the best purchases ever.”
Together through the Christmas season
The best Christmas presents for dogs are those that create closeness, provide security and make life more colorful. Whether active, homemade or precautionary: Each of these gifts shows the dog how important he is to his family. And that's exactly what Christmas is all about.