27 Useful Products Because Owning A Dog Is Expensive

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2 days ago

A Chuckit dog toy launcher, so you can make sure your long-legged companions get all the fun and exercise they need. It might look like it's just a plastic stick with a cup on the end, but somehow, it enables you to throw your pup's favorite tennis ball astonishingly long distances without wearing out your own arm. Also: No more dog slobber on your hands!
Promising review: 'The dogs are worn out, not me! This ball launcher has been a game changer for playtime with my pup. It makes it so easy to throw the ball far without wearing out my arm — perfect for high-energy dogs who love to run. One of the best features is how easy it is to scoop up the ball without bending over or getting slobber all over your hands. It's lightweight, simple to use, and tires out my dog way faster than I could on my own. If you have a fetch-obsessed pup, this is absolutely worth it. Fun for them, easy on you!' —Hannah Bidne Get it from Amazon for $9.86.
A whimsical water fountain to keep your furry pals hydrated — and with only the best-quality water, at that. I mean, hey, if the humans of the household drink filtered water, don't the canine members deserve the same courtesy? This one is also just darling, with its little lily pad-shaped spout.
Heads up that this fountain is better for small dogs than big ones, due to its low profile and 50-ounce capacity.Promising review: 'Big hit!! This fountain is a perfect size for my mini Aussies. It is very quiet and sturdy. Just arrived today and the pups have been drinking from it more than they ever drank from the regular water bowl. Love Frisco pet products!' —Kitty Get it from Chewy for $22.74.
A Thundershirt anxiety vest, because your puppy buddy's mental health is absolutely worth the investment. This wraparound vest applies gentle pressure around your furry friend, which in turn can aid in alleviating fear or anxiety during thunderstorms, fireworks, travel, or even episodes of separation anxiety. It's sort of like a wearable weighted blanket for pets.
Promising review: 'WORTH EVERY PENNY!! My 4-year-old German shepherd Maya gets very anxious when it thunderstorms, so I decided to try the thunder jacket and I'm shocked! She was sleeping through the thunderstorms! Never thought I'd be able to say that. She would always hide and shake so bad. It would hurt me to see her like that. So glad that thunder shirt was able to help. She weighs about 71 pounds and I got the size large and it fits perfectly.' —Breanna G Get it from Amazon for $31.99+ (available in seven sizes).
A two-pack of silicone treat lick mats, so you can keep your pawsome pal from attacking your furniture and give them a tasty treat, all in one go. Spreading these mats with peanut butter, pumpkin, or another squishy kind of treat, freezing them, and then letting your doggo have a go will keep them both occupied and pacified in the most delicious way possible.
Promising review: 'Dog loves this! So clever and easy to use! My pup used to bark and whine when I had to leave home, now he is happy as can be for hours. Make ahead and freeze. Well worth the money and I love the colors!' —Savvy Shopper Get it from Amazon for $7.29+ (available in two sizes and color combinations; also available as a three-pack).
Or a snuffle mat for the same reason, but with easier cleanup. Hide a couple of treats in the many folds and flaps of the mat and watch 'em go to town hunting them down — all while helping to cut down on destructive behavior they might otherwise take out on your couch, your curtains, your rugs, your impressive collection of artful coffee table books…
Promising review: 'GET THIS FOR YOUR DOGS! My dog has a habit of getting into things he shouldn't. He'd go through the trash and when we left and came back there would be trash on the floor. I got him the snuffle mat because it said it could help to prevent that kind of behavior, and let me tell you, it's a life changer! My dog LOVES when we take out the snuffle mat for him! It keeps him entertained for hours. He'll get so tired after playing with it that he goes and naps then comes back to it after he wakes up to play with it some more and get more food from it. Right now, I only use it once a day and sprinkle a cup of food in between the flaps. It keeps him entertained all day!! He absolutely loves it!! It's such a simple product and works so well! It's more than worth the buy, you have to get this!!' —Elizabeth Henry Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in two sizes and six colors).
An elevated food bowl set for the doggo who has a tendency to, uh, bring their breakfast back up almost immediately. Elevated bowls allow pets to eat in a posture that's WAY better for digestion — which means both a happier pal, and less barf for you to clean up. This one is even adjustable, so it'll work for big and little dogs alike!
Promising review: 'Great price and works well for my big dogs! My dogs are eating and drinking better than they ever have and they are aren't making big messes anymore. The stand is sturdy, easy to clean and the bowls are good quality. Wish I'd bought them a long time ago. Worth every penny!' —Loren Lorenz Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in three sizes and three colors).
And an airtight food storage container to keep all that kibble fresh and prevent any mischievous pups from getting into it when you're not looking. The smooth-rolling wheels on this handy container allow for easy storage and transport, while the latching top fastens securely so that little paws (or big paws!) won't be able to open it.
Promising review: '50-pound bag of dog food? No problem! We have a Siberian husky and a black lab. Each of their bags is 50 pounds. I bought two of these and at first stored the food in them on carpet in our office. Now that we are expecting a baby, the office is now a nursery, so we rolled these with ease out to the garage. Seals tight, food is fresh, and keeps ants out. Highly recommend. I was scared because I'm cheap, but honestly these are definitely worth the investment. Fast delivery, no damage, easy to assemble (wheels just push into holes on the bottom, lid snaps on), and fresh puppy food with each use. I very much like these and hope they will continue to last! Going on a year now! 🥳' —Selket Ubasti Get it from Amazon for $20.39+ (available in three sizes and three colors).
AND a 'Did You Feed The Dog?' reminder tool that'll help even the most absent-minded among us keep track of, well, whether they've fed the dog.
A deceptively simply tool, this little magnetic plaque has two toggle switches for each day of the week — one each for the morning and the evening. Just flip the switch when mealtime has happened, and you'll always know whether or not your pet has had their num nums.Promising review: 'This is a simple answer to us asking each other 15 times a week if anyone fed the dog. SO worth the money to lose that headache. The slides work smoothly and it's very simple to use. The adhesion didn't work great for us, but it very possibly was due to the surface we use it on. We ended up just setting it on top of the shelf instead of trying to stick it to the side, and it works wonderfully.' —Allison Erwin Get it from Amazon for $9.61.
An odor-eliminating candle, because dogs are great, but dog smell is not. Like many odor-eliminating sprays, this lavender- and chamomile-infused candle's main method of attack is enzymes, meaning it'll actually neutralize smells instead of just covering them up.
Promising review: 'I'm a candle connoisseur! I love candles and these by far are the STRONGEST candles ever. Better than every other public brand I've ever used. Smell so good. I don't have any other candles around my house. Definitely work on dog odor. Worth the price!' —MykalGet it from Chewy for $11.95.
A jar of Dermoscent BioBalm skin-repairing dog balm, so you can keep your pet's nose and paws comfortably moisturized in nippy or dry weather. Just rub a little of this waterproof, soybean oil-based balm on any dry or cracked spots and your pal should be good to go.
Promising review: 'Started working day one! This product is awesome! I saw a difference after one application. Within five days, my dogs dry cracked paws, were soft and supple with no cracks. You need such a small amount, this lasts longer than you think. I started with once a day, then moved to twice a week for maintenance. This stuff is awesome! Definitely worth it.' —Elizabeth Get it from Amazon for $34.99.
A set of pet steps to give your furry friends a literal leg up. Small pup? Older pet whose joints aren't quite what they used to be? Diva dog who simply desires the use of a personal red carpet at all times? They'll all be able to climb up to the couch or bed for cuddles with ease.
Promising review: 'Who would think these stairs would become so important to my husband's new little friend, 'Penny Pearl?' She loves them and uses them to get to her food/water, to the bathroom pad, and back up again to attach herself to my husband. These are so worth the money. They have a great little handle in the back to effortlessly move them if necessary, they put no stress or strain on Penny's tummy, legs, or any part of her body. She loves them! We all thank you for a quality and useful product!' —MaryGet it from Amazon for $29.98+ (available in eight sizes, with three, four, or five steps, and in 10 colors).
A cozy bed for your heart's closest companion to rest in, because they deserve only the most comfortable of napping spots. Reviewers say this bolster-style dream machine from Target's absolutely adorbs Boots & Barkley line is especially good for puppers who like to nest or burrow, thanks to its fuzzy exterior and soothing donut shape.
Promising review: 'Perfect for a dog who loves to cuddle! This is the best dog bed we have ever purchased! Our pup is very picky with her dog beds, as she loves to physically cuddle with her owners or curl up on the couch. We brought this bed home and within minutes she was cuddled up snoring.' —MMartinez Get it from Target for $26.99+ (available in four sizes).
A tangle-free retractable leash, so you and your doggo can safely and securely enjoy the great outdoors together. This option has a quick-lock system that uses a roll-on, roll-off control to switch between modes, giving your pup some freedom while you maintain control.
Promising review: 'Still going strong after two years — built to last! We've been using the TUG XL Retractable Dog Leash for almost two years now, and it still works and looks like new. This leash has been through daily walks, all kinds of weather, and plenty of pulling — and it's held up perfectly!What I Love:✔ Durable Build: The nylon tape is strong and hasn't frayed or tangled once. It retracts just as smoothly as it did on day one.✔ Tangle-Free Swivel: The 360-degree design really works—no frustrating leash twists, even with an energetic dog who likes to circle.✔ One-Handed Brake and Lock: Super convenient. I can pause, lock, or release the leash effortlessly while on the move.✔ Comfortable Grip: The anti-slip handle is ergonomic and comfortable for long walks—even in the rain or cold.✔ Long Reach: The 26-foot length gives my dog room to roam, while still allowing me to stay in control when needed.Final Verdict:After two years of heavy use, this leash is still performing like day one. It's strong, smooth, and incredibly reliable. If you have a large dog and want a leash that lasts, the TUG XL is absolutely worth it.' —DT Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in five sizes and eight colors).
And a personalized leash hook that'll make sure your leash, poop bags, and other walkies must-haves are always waiting and ready to go. Made to order from beautiful pine wood and featuring a handy, two-hook hanger, it's as beautiful as it is practical. No more misplacing your pal's leash and frantically ordering a replacement, only to find your original one three seconds later!
BnzGiftStore is a small business based in Hillsborough, NJ that specializes in custom-made wood signs and other goods designed to bring a warm, personal touch to any space.Promising review: 'We added a new member to our family and we were running out of room on our 'leash shelf' so we knew we wanted something functional and cute. The colors are perfect and I love the double hooks.' —Nicole Ledesma Get it from BnzGiftStore on Etsy for $34.29+ (originally $48.99+; available in nine colors, with or without shiplap, and for up to four dogs).
A fur rake so effective, it can comb a whole 'nother pet off your actual pet when you use it — and helps you keep your dog grooming bills down, while you're at it. This handy tool has a dual-sided head to get at both stubborn tangles and voluminous fur, making sure their coat looks healthy and as close to shampoo-commercial-hair-perfect as possible.
Promising review: 'I'm rarely (if ever) moved to write a review, but as soon as I finished using this glorious brush, I was compelled share. This amazing brush is worth its weight in gold! I have three big dogs, Dutch (black lab AKA cranky old man), Archi (blond lab AKA Meatloaf... he's a tad overweight) and Kuper (German Shedder.. erm.. I mean Shepard). Dutch has a short coat so this didn't do much for him, but Archi and Kuper, that's another story. I can't believe how much hair I removed from these two! Seriously! I think I removed a chihuahua's worth of hair from Archi and a Great Dane's worth from Kuper. The difference this amazing brush made is astounding! I wish I had taken a before and after picture! Anyway, buy this brush! It's worth it! It works great on my cats as well!' —M Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in two colors).
And a ChomChom pet hair roller, so you can de-fur yourself afterward, too. Your laundry-related expenses do not have to scale with your doggo's beauty routine. Promise. (Bonus: In the long run, it'll be way more wallet-friendly than using single-use lint roller sheets over and over and over again.)
Promising review: 'Still works like new after several years! I've been using this since 2021 and it's still working perfectly. I have three dogs — one of them a golden retriever, so you can imagine the amount of shedding — and this tool handles it like magic. It picks up pet hair effortlessly, especially on the couch, and using it is surprisingly soothing lol.What I appreciate most is the durability. I haven't had to replace it because the one I bought still works like the day I got it, even after a lot of use. It also hasn't damaged my couch fabric at all, which is a big plus.The only small downside is the button to open the fur compartment — it's placed right where you naturally grip the tool, so it took a bit of time to get used to. But once you do, it's simple and convenient to use.Highly recommend for any household with pets — definitely worth having on hand!' —Vicky DominguezGet it from Amazon for $18.74 (available in two colors).
A shower attachment designed especially for dogs, because it's so much quicker (and ultimately more cost-effective) than running to the groomer's every time your furry friend has decided that today would be a great day to roll around in that big ol' muddy patch they just found.
This neat-o 'water spray comb' from the geniuses at Waterpik attaches easily to most shower heads with the included adapter, or can even hook up to a garden hose — and even though the spray is super gentle, it's also super effective. Promising review: 'Worth it! This made my life 1,000 times easier. My dogs get very anxious with baths, so using a cup to fill/pour with the loud tub spout did not make anything easier. This Waterpik has helped so much! It was easy to install and it fit perfectly with no leaks. The suction hook holder keeps falling, but I think that's because of my tile. Overall, it's a quality product that works super well.' —Carly Get it from Amazon for $49.99.
A pack of Greenies dental treats, because — much like human teeth — taking care of your dog's chompers now is going to save them a whole world of ickiness and you a whole lot of money on vet bills later on. (Both are absolutely worth it!) Gnawing on these chewy little bones helps fight plaque and tartar all the way down to your pups' gumlines.
Promising review: 'Helps with his bad breath! Eddie is a few months shy of four, so that stench emanating from his mouth isn't puppy breath. He's had some variety of real bones once or twice a week ever since he was three months old (marrow in the last few years), which have kept his teeth clean and healthy. Unfortunately, between my farting and his bad breath, our house can be a very stinky place sometimes. This is my second box of these 'standard' size chews, which Eddie gets every second or third day, and they have most definitely helped his breath. Pricey, but worth it.' —M. A. Rehak Get them from Amazon for $5.79+ (available in eight package sizes).
An enzyme-powered stain and odor eliminator, because every pet owner knows that having one of these in your cleaning arsenal is nonnegotiable, especially if you don't want to have to deal with the hassle and expense of replacing your entire carpet situation.
Messes of every imaginable variety (and probably ones you've never dared to imagine) literally break down when faced with this stuff, removing all traces from both sight and smell. Promising review: 'The best thing out there for difficult urine smells! We had an apartment and a dog who took literally six months to potty train and kept having accidents even though we kept cleaning up after each accident the carpet started to smell strongly of dog urine. I bought a carpet shampooer and was recommended to use this product and I can tell you that we literally pulled all the urine out of the carpets. It was unbelievable. It has a very herbal type of smell that dissipates once the carpet dries, but there was literally no trace of urine smells once we went over the carpet a few times with this stuff — definitely worth buying. You can keep it in a spray bottle and use it in spots that you clean up as well. For the record, we tried just about every product out there. This is the only one that actually did the trick.' —Molly G Get it from Amazon for $17.94+ (available in two sizes and two scents).
And some Stomp 'N Go stain-removing pads for those times when you don't quite have the spare minutes to spend on a full-on cleaning session. They're better for smaller stains than big ones, but they can work some true magic if you're pressed for active cleaning time.
All you have to do to use them is lay them on top of a stain, stomp on them, and then let them sit for around half an hour. When you pull the pad back up, voila! The stain will come with it.Promising review: 'Seriously the best stain remover on carpets. A bit pricier than some, but worth the fast and easy way to deal with a pet stain. Love love. You will not regret and they are portable if you take a pet along somewhere and there is an accident.' —zanna616 Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $27.48.
A seat cover for your car, so you can make sure your pack of puppy pals are able to ride in comfort and keep your upholstery clean. (Two proverbial birds, one proverbial stone!) Drooly dogs? Hairy pups? Exuberant fur-buddies who love to roll in the dirt? Fasten this durable cover — which, by the way, comes complete with a waterproof backing — over the backseat, and you're good to go.
Promising review: 'This product is well worth the investment. It fits our vehicle, keeps our dog safe (we have used three of these covers for other dogs over the years) and cleans well. Additionally, it keeps the back seat clean and protected from scratches and 'digging' from an excited dog. Currently using in an SUV with an Olde English Bulldogge. Previously we had German Shepherds. Would recommend for all vehicles and all breads of dog.' —Lorin C. Get it from Amazon for $28.49+ (available in two sizes, seven colors, and with or without a hard bottom).
A 'Franny the Pet Nanny' snuggle toy that'll give both your pupper and you so much peace of mind. Designed specifically to ease anxiety in stressed pets, this cuddler's secret is in its hidden pocket: Stash a piece of clothing or other item that smells like their favorite person — you! — inside it, and your furry friend will always be able to cuddle with you, even if you're not actually, y'know, there.
Franny also includes a battery-operated heart pulse insert you can put inside for even more comfort: When it's turned on, it'll mimic what your dog would feel when cozied up with a parent or litter. Whiskers 'n Paws is a woman-owned small business based in Madison Lake, MN that designs unique and truly adorable pet toys and supplies.Promising review: 'I am in love with how cute and soft this plushie is, and my puppy loves it too! She suffers from separation anxiety and has a nervous demeanor in general. We are working with a trainer to help her, but I love that I can put something that smells like us inside during the few times a week we have to leave. She carries around and sleeps with Franny. The pulsing heart is a great addition and it does stay secured inside the toy. I might have to buy a second one as a backup!' —Sara McLean Get it from Whiskers 'n Paws on Etsy for $19.20 (originally $24; available in six colors).
A highly rated crate, because this is one dog essential that's worth splashing out for. Trick it out with some comfy bedding and it'll quickly become your puppy pal's favorite spot in the house — and you'll be secure in knowing your doggo is also secure. Crate training? No problem!
Promising review: 'Perfect for our 30-pound puppy! We bought this crate for our little scruffy terrier mix. He's about 30 pounds now (although he was smaller when we bought it). He fits really well in it and has grown to love his crate (he only stays in it when we are not home). He's broken out of some other crates, but this one fits him well and he actually goes in there willingly. This crate is great quality and the price was great, as well. I would definitely purchase this again. We've had this crate for over a year and it is still in incredible condition. I love that the bottom plastic part slides in and out so easily, because it is easy to clean and that is awesome! He doesn't ever have accidents in his crate, but a couple of times he's gotten sick and he also brings little dirty puppy paws in there, so after a while it needs to be cleaned. If this one broke somehow, I would absolutely order another one of the same thing for him. It has been worth every cent we paid and I am so happy I ordered this!' —Kelsey CouncilGet it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in eight sizes).
A pet-safe splash pad to keep your pal cool in the soaring temperatures this summer. Finding a dog-friendly place to go swimming can be tough — but with this hose-hookup pad, you and your fur bud can make your own summer fun together, right in your backyard!
Promising review: 'This is wonderful! Our dog Delta loves it! It is easy to connect and get started. It adjusts easily to change the direction of the spray and very durable. Very much worth the money, would buy again! Perfect for our dogs!!' —Tony D Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five colors and three sizes).
And a bottle of ear wash, so your puppy can splash around all they want without suffering painful ear blockage or irritation. If you've ever spotted your pal pawing at their ear repeatedly, you know how uncomfortable ear gunk can be for them — but this stuff can help clear the problem up quickly. Sparing them the earache is always worth doing!
Promising review: 'With swimming and summer comes excess issues with ears! After many vet visits and numerous products etc. that haven't worked very effectively, I've finally found some relief! This is so wonderful for my dogs. I was totally skeptical, but someone told me it's worth its weight in gold. Sure is!! Took away the excess junk, moisture, itching and smell in one simple treatment. Put some into the ear canal as directed, massaged etc., and then let it do its job. Cleaned the outside ear as needed and then no more redness, itching nor odor. Happy pups and so am I. No more running to Vets and dealing with so many treatments that take forever and don't work quickly or effectively without causing further irritation. Definitely going to always keep a bottle on hand!' —Pyr LoverGet it from Amazon for $8.94+ (available in two sizes; also available as disposable wipes).
A pair of nail clippers, because no, you do not actually have to go to the groomer every time your dog needs their sharp little needles trimmed. The guard on this pair protects against too close a cut — and there's a nail file included, too. How's that for useful?
Promising review: 'Easy and not scary to use! For the first time in my chihuahua's life I clipped his nails myself! We normally have to go every month to the groomers for this, but recently had a bad experience that forced us to handle this ourselves. It's super easy. Can't believe I was scared lol. The stopper makes it easy to measure a safe amount to clip. The trick is to have something to distract or calm your pup with and when you get that nail in place don't hesitate. Took two minutes for all four paws with my partner holding our dog. I did have to get in some weird crouches but it was worth it to avoid a groomer.' —Megan Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in three sizes).
And lastly, some dog dander remover, so you can enjoy snuggles with your favorite furry companion without the sneezing or itchy eyes. A bottle of this stuff: About $25. The ability to cuddle with alllllllll the puppies you want: Priceless.
Promising review: 'Amazing and magical! I never do reviews on same day of delivery. But this is an exception. Found out that I now have dog dander allergy and it's been miserable for months before finding out. I've had dogs all 49 years of my life and was devastated that I would have to give my dog up. My niece found this for me, I gaffed at the price, but whatever, if it works, it will be priceless to me. To experiment, I wiped down her front half with the spray on the mitt. Had playtime which, to my blue heeler, means I'm the jungle gym and she rolls all over me. My legs were itchy as heck, from her untreated back half. I purposely put my face into her neck and let her wiggle around. Absolutely zero itching at all!! I haven't been able to play with her like that in MONTHS!! This stuff is priceless and will be set on subscription. Get it, you will not regret it!! Worth every stinking penny!!' —Lina B Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sets of one or two bottles and with or without a spray top and applicator mitt).