Easter is right around the corner and, as a dog parent, you might be thinking of ways to make the upcoming holiday a special one for your furry family member. One of the best ways to do that is by creating a fun Easter basket that’s filled with stuff your dog will love! Here are some tips on how to create a fun Easter basket for your dog:
Select the Basket
Sure, a traditional wicker basket will work perfectly to house your dog’s holiday goodies. But, if you dread the idea of storing yet another basket in the closet to collect dust then you can swap it for something different, like a new dog bed or toy box.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Avoid stuffing the bottom of your basket, bed, or toy bin with fake cellophane Easter grass. While it may look harmless, it can actually be dangerous for dogs if ingested. The main danger: If a dog ingests Easter grass, it can get tangled up in their digestive system and cause an intestinal blockage. This can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.
Fill Your Basket with Easter-Themed Toys
What better way to make your dog feel special than by getting them a new toy? There are plenty of Easter-themed plush toys — and even interactive puzzles — available. I especially love THIS carrot patch snuffle mat. You fill the 12 holes with something yummy, cover them up with plush carrots, and let your pup scavenge for the treats. We’ve had this for a few years and it remains a hit with my pups! Note: While this snuffle mat is fine for dogs of all sizes, it may not be ideal for pugs and other flat-faced breeds. In my opinion, the treat compartments are pretty deep, which makes them easier to navigate for dogs with longer snouts.
Add Something Yummy
Of course, the way to every dog’s heart is through their stomach. So, don’t forget to include some tasty treats. You can make your own homemade dog treats – I have plenty of recipes right here on my blog. Or, opt for limited-ingredient store-bought treats. I’ve shared links to some of our favorites below.
- Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Minnows
- PureBites Freeze Dried Salmon
- The Honest Kitchen Cod & Blueberry Crisps
- Dr. Harvey’s Freeze Dried Chicken Hearts
- PureBites Freeze Dried Beef Liver
- Riley’s Slims Chicken Sticks
- Dr. Harvey’s Sweet Potatoe’r Chews
IMPORTANT NOTE: Make sure you choose treats that are safe for dogs and avoid anything with chocolate, as it can be toxic for them. Find out more about why chocolate is dangerous for dogs HERE. Additionally, avoid other traditional Easter candies made for people, as they can also include ingredients that aren’t safe for our pups.
Consider Adding Accessories
If your dog loves dressing up, you can add some Easter-themed accessories to their basket. Look for a cute doggy shirt, bandana with a sweet Easter design, or even bunny ears. These accessories will make for some adorable photo opportunities!
Things To Avoid
- Cellophane Easter grass
- Chocolate
- Easter candy designed for people
- Plastic eggs (monitor your dog around plastic Easter eggs, as they can become a choking hazard if your pup tries to eat them)
Creating an Easter basket for your dog is a simple project that’s designed to bring joy to you and your dog. Wishing you a wonderful Easter holiday!
