If you feel that a cosy home can’t really be cosy without a dog, you’re in good company. We’ve picked ten of our favourite accessories, all designed to be practical, sturdy and stylish.
1. The Stylish Dog Company: Donut Bed
We love this soft, squidgy bed from The Stylish Dog Company. The neutral colour would fit into any décor, and, importantly, it’s machine washable. The raised sides offer comfort and support for older or nervous dogs, and the cotton cover is perfect for dogs with sensitive skins. Handmade in the UK, this is one bed that your dog won’t mind being sent to. Made to order, prices start from £55.
2. Emma Bridgewater: Labrador Bowl
Emblazoned with the words ‘Faithful and very greedy’, this bowl will strike a chord with Labrador owners everywhere. Sturdy, stable and dishwasher safe, it’s made to stand up to the attentions of even the most desperate ‘out-of-my-way-NOW-I’m-dying-of-hunger’ dog. £24.95 from Emma Bridgewater.
3. Jonny’s Sister: Treat and Food Tin
These sturdy enamel tins are perfect for keeping treats and food out of the way of inquisitive paws, and can be personalised with your dog’s name or the tin contents.The large size tin also comes with a metal scoop to help deal out dogs’ dinners. £35.75 for the large size tin from Jonny’s Sister.
4. Hennessey & Sons: Harris Tweed Collar
For the ultimate in canine chic, treat your furry friend to one of these stunning collars. Handcrafted from genuine Harris tweed, each collar carries a certification stamp and is made from top quality materials to suit the liveliest Lab or sprightliest Spaniel. Available from Zinc & Co, priced at £35.
5. Christopher Daniel: Bright Spot Lead
Bring a little pizzazz to the park, and step out in style with this bright dotty lead. Just the thing to bring a little colour to a grey, wintery dog walk, it’s available from Christopher Daniel and priced at £11.99.
6. Fallen Fruits: Dog Tail Hooks
Keep your dog lead to hand with these quirky hooks. Each one is made from sturdy cast iron, and mounted on a slate back plate. Equally useful outside, for grabbing leads in an emergency, or inside for hanging dog walking jackets and jumpers. Available from Cotswold Trading, £15.99.
7. Tweedmill: Recycled Wool Rug
These fantastic tartan blankets are made from recycled wool in Wales, making each one individual. Environmentally friendly, they’re also a great price, so that your pampered pooch can cosy up in style without breaking the bank. Available from One Brown Cow, priced at £14.95.
8. The Great Gift Company: PetCam
Introducing…the PetCam! If you’ve ever wondered how your dog ends up in the scrapes he does, or what really happened to that last piece of cake you were sure was on the table, then this neat little gadget is for you. It weighs only 35g, and clips onto your pet’s collar for a rover’s eye view of the world. Available from The Great Gift Company, £85.
9. Mungo and Maud: Organic Dog Treats
We like this gorgeous bag of dog treats, full of healthy organic goodies, so much we could almost eat it ourselves. Once the contents have gone, the bag’s nice enough to use for storage or re-filling. Perfect for the discerning dog or canny canine connoisseur, the bag’s priced at £16.25 and available from Mungo and Maud.
10. Mutts and Bones: Dog Bone Toy
Covered in soft organic cotton, these bones won’t damage elderly or puppy mouths. There’s a squeaky centre to keep your dog interested, and if he decides to leave his toys scattered around the house, these bones look so good you almost won’t mind. Prices start from £16.50; available from John Lewis.
By Sara Walker
