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If Your Dog Is A Pain In The Butt, These Clever Things Are Life-Changing
Genius solutions that’ll have you both drooling.
I love my dogs more than anything, but they’re little 12-pound menaces: One eats tissues and freaks out in the car, and the other is allergic to everything. But when it comes to training, travel, treats, and tantrums for temperamental pooches, preparedness is key. If your dog is a pain in the butt, these clever things are life-changing. From smartly designed leashes to irresistible enrichment toys, these useful picks are bound to delight both you and your pup.
01An Absorbent Robe That Takes The Stress Out Of Post-Bath Drying
This doggy bathrobe offers a cozy after-bath alternative to scary blow-dryers and wet furniture. Made from microfiber, it’s thick and absorbent to soak up water from their fur fast, and it secures around the belly with special velcro that sticks to itself instead of their coat. “It’s super soft, absorbent, and makes drying off my dogs so much easier,” one reviewer wrote.
- Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
- Available styles: 11
02A Doggy Doormat That Traps Moisture, Mud & Sand
“I can't believe it actually works,” wrote one reviewer who called this dog doormat a “miracle rug” because it stops their dogs from tracking mud all over their white tile floors. Using absorbent chenille fibers, it soaks up moisture and captures dirt and sand from your pet’s paws (and your guests’ shoes) to keep your floors cleaner in between cleanings.
- Available styles: 16
03A Puzzle Treat Toy That Also Files Nails
Scratch pads aren’t just for cats; they’re also a low-stress grooming option for dogs who dislike clippers or nail grinders or are in between manicures. This treat dispenser encourages your dog to file their nails while they sharpen their mind and engage their hunting instincts. Fill the middle with up to 1.5 cups of food, and as your dog presses the center button, the kibble will dispense into the individual compartments, which open with a nudge of the nose.
04An Engaging Giggle Ball That Has Dogs “Obsessed”
This giggle ball toy has over 62,000 five-star reviews on Amazon and is made from durable material for indoor or outdoor play. “From my 12-year-old senior pup to our 10-week-old puppy, every single dog is obsessed,” wrote one reviewer. Instead of batteries, it has tubes inside that make engaging giggling sounds and features clutch pockets so dogs of any breed can get a good grip.
- Available styles: 5
05A Paw Cleaner With A Built-In Brush Applicator
Even if your dog is a digger, this Wet Ones paw cleaner stops them from tracking dirt into the house. Using a foaming antibacterial formula, it tackles over 99% of germs to keep your dog’s paws clean and fresh. It’s also infused with aloe vera for hydration and has a built-in applicator head with soft bristles, so you can scrub away dirt, mud, and unwanted odors all with one tool.
06Finger Ear Wipes That Minimize Odors, Infections & Itchiness
“Definitely a must have for pet owners,” one reviewer wrote about these ear wipes, which are suitable for both cats and dogs. Made from textured fabric that clings to debris, they slip over your finger for comfortable cleanings that most pets don’t just tolerate — they actually enjoy. The wipes are also infused with gentle ingredients to neutralize odors, prevent infections, and hydrate the skin.
07A No-Rinse Dog Shampoo That Keeps Them Fresh Between Baths
Can’t get your pup in the bath as often as you’d like? This waterless shampoo and conditioner cleanses, deodorizes, and hydrates their coat without rinsing or fuss. Just massage it into their fur from head to tail (avoiding the face) and brush it through. It’s alcohol-free and hypoallergenic to prevent irritation, too.
- Available styles: 5
08A Calming Donut-Shaped Bed My Restless Dog Loves
My dog Oscar is picky, restless, and stubborn, but he immediately took to this calming donut bed, which we keep in his crate to help him settle down at night. It’s soft and plush with raised orthopedic edges so anxious pets can curl up in comfort. Better yet, the smaller sizes are fully machine washable. We bought this particular brand over a year ago, and it still looks like new (whereas knockoffs fell apart within months).
- Available sizes: 20 x 20 x 6 (L x W x H) — 45 x 45 x 10 (L x W x H)
- Available styles: 17
09Odorless Water Drops That Clean Teeth & Freshen Breath
Using a combination of zinc and oxygen, these dental drops are designed to care for your pet’s mouth as they drink. Add a capful to their water every day to clean their teeth, neutralize their breath, soothe irritated gums, and fight tartar. It’s also tasteless and odorless, which explains why it’s a number-one bestseller with over 24,000 five-star ratings.
10A Compression Vest Designed To Soothe Anxiety
Using gentle compression that feels like a soothing hug, this ThunderShirt calming vest is designed to minimize anxiety during thunderstorms, firework shows, vet visits, and car rides. Available in seven sizes to fit most breeds, it’s lightweight and machine washable with adjustable tabs around the tummy and neck for a comfortable fit.
- Available sizes: XXS — XXL
11A Plush Machine-Washable Cover That Protects Your Sofa
Available in four colors and four size options, this couch cover offers a stylish yet practical way to protect your sofa from pets. It has a checkered velvet pattern on the top, nonslip silicone beads on the bottom, and plush cotton padding in the middle. This one-and-done covering boosts comfort while absorbing moisture, preventing stains, and catching pet hair. It’s also machine washable when it needs a refresh, too.
- Available styles: 4
12A Portable Shower Tool For Dogs Who Get Dirty
If your dog can’t seem to stay out of the mud, this silicone cap turns any 2-liter soda bottle into an outdoor dog shower. It dispenses water slowly enough to last a full minute, but powerfully enough to rinse away dirt and sand — plus, it’s super compact for easy travel and dishwasher safe to keep it clean between uses.
13Feeding Mats With High Edges To Contain Messes
With extra-tall edges and a large surface area, these feeding mats keep kibble, wet food, and water neatly contained — even if your dog is a messy eater. They’re made from food-grade silicone that’s nontoxic, nonslip, and easy to wipe clean — or, just toss them in the dishwasher to sanitize them. Get them in four colors and five size options.
- Available sizes: XS — XXL
- Available styles: 4
14A Flying Squirrel-Shaped Toy That’s Soft Enough To Throw Indoors
This flying squirrel toy is easy to toss through the air, but it’s covered in soft chenille fabric that won’t scuff your walls, damage your floors, or dent your furniture. It’s also gentle on your dog’s teeth and surprisingly durable for extended games of indoor fetch when going outside isn’t an option. Most importantly, it’s a “huge hit for all our dogs,” wrote one reviewer.
- Available styles: 6
15A Trunk Cover That Protects Your Car & Cushions Your Pet
Line the back of your SUV or truck with this trunk cover to keep your car clean and your dog comfortable. Its large size and adjustable headrest straps universally fit most vehicles, while its multilayer construction has Oxford fabric that protects your upholstery, a plush cotton interior to cushion your pet, and a waterproof coating to stop stains and accidents. Plus, the nonslip rubber backing adds traction to keep it in place.
- Available styles: 2
16Dental Stick Treats Made From Upcycled Produce
Your dog thinks they’re getting a tasty treat, but these chew sticks double as dental care. Made with whole ingredients from imperfect fruits and vegetables to upcycle produce that doesn’t make it to grocery store shelves, they clean plaque, whiten their teeth, and freshen their breath as they eat. They’re also packed with antioxidants to support their immune system.
- Available styles: 6
17A Tip-Proof, Splash-Resistant Bowl For Messy Drinkers
“Our dog was a sloppy drinker until this bowl. It stopped the multiple water drops on the floor and slowed down her drinking,” one reviewer wrote about this spill-proof dog bowl. Made from stainless steel, it’s sturdy and features a nonslip base to prevent tipping. Plus, the floating molded disc on top dispenses enough water for drinking, but not for splashing.
- Available styles: 5
18A Hands-Free Belt Leash With Built-In Poop Bag Storage
Hold your dog’s leash hands-free — and any other essentials you need on your walk or run. This adjustable leash belt has a fanny pack that’s big enough for your phone, keys, and wallet, plus it dispenses poop bags and has a reflective strip for visibility in the dark. The belt also comes with a leash that has two bungees to absorb shock.
- Available styles: 6
19Rear-End Wipes For Messy Butts
These rear-end wipes are a lifesaver whenever my pups get what I call “doody booties.” They’re made with enzymes that neutralize odors and tackle bacteria, yet they’re gentle and hydrating for sensitive skin. (My dogs are allergic to basically everything, but these haven’t been an issue.) You can also use them to clean their paws, face, and ears.
20Powder That Solidifies Wet Messes For Easier Cleanup
Accidents (especially wet ones) can be a huge pain in the butt, but this Sprinkle & Sweep powder helps you clean them up in a snap — without endless paper towels. Just sprinkle it on urine, poop, or vomit and it’ll solidify the mess into a sweepable consistency. It’s also infused with essential oils and activated charcoal from coconuts to neutralize unwanted odors.
- Available styles: 5
21An Appliance For Making Easy DIY Dog Treats
Have a picky pup with food allergies? Create your own unprocessed treats at home using only their favorite ingredients with this dog treat maker. It creates up to eight bone-shaped treats in mere minutes and even comes with a recipe guide. Just preheat the press and add the batter, and the nonstick BPA-free plates will cook the treat evenly and wipe clean afterwards.
- Available styles: 2
22A Car Crate That Changed The Game For My Anxious Dog
This car crate has been an absolute game-changer for my dog who doesn’t do well on drives. Fully enclosed for safety but made with mesh panels so he can still see us, it comes with a washable pad that comforts him on long road trips. It also wraps around the headrest and buckles into the seat for stability.
23Lick Mats That Keep Your Dog Distracted & Entertained
Use these lick mats to keep your pup calm, distracted, and entertained during stressful events. It’s made from silicone with gentle nubs, so it’s compatible with peanut butter, yogurt, wet food, or frozen bone broth. It’s also dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. You can even stick it to the shower wall to make bath time less stressful, too.
- Available styles: 6
24A Portable Water Bottle To Keep Your Pup Hydrated On The Go
If keeping your dog hydrated while you’re out and about is a challenge, this portable dog water bottle makes the process so much easier. It’s leak resistant with a 19-ounce capacity and fits in most cup holders when you’re on the move — but hold it horizontally and press the button, and the attached dispenser fills up with water to double as a dog bowl.
- Available styles: 5
25A Reusable Pet Hair Remover With Rave Reviews
This pet hair remover is a tool you’ll reach for again and again to keep your house looking neat. It uses static cling rather than sticky sheets to attract loose fur, allowing you to empty it and keep reusing it. It comes highly recommended by shoppers, too, a whopping 200,000 of whom have weighed in to give it a 4.5-star overall rating.
- Available styles: 4
26Display-Worthy Pee Pads That Look Like Stylish Rugs
Hate the look of pee pads all around your home while you’re potty training or preparing for accidents? These machine-washable pee pads look like stylish rugs, but they’re made with multiple layers of absorbent, leak-resistant fabric on top of non-slip bottoms. They also come in your choice of 13 sizes and eight colors.
- Available styles: 8
27A Well-Designed Feeding Station For The Messiest Of Eaters
The Neater Feeder Express is a pet feeding station designed for the messiest of eaters. Its two-layer system features drainage holes and a hollow base to catch spilled food and water, plus it’s raised for ergonomic eating and has high walls to prevent splatter. The feeder also comes with two stainless steel bowls that are dishwasher safe.
- Available sizes: Small — Large
- Available styles: 4
28A Latch That Keeps Your Door Open For Easy Pet Access
Say goodbye to constantly letting your pets in and out of the room thanks to this door prop. Simply remove the original strike plate and screw this version in in its place. It comes with an adjustable width so you can give your furry friend as little or as much space as they need to squeeze through all on their own.
29A Treat-Filled Toy That Keeps Them Entertained For Longer
Fill this interactive pupsicle with a ball of frozen peanut butter to keep fast eaters or heavy chewers entertained for the better part of an hour. It has a weighted base with drool-catching slots to minimize mess as they play and eat, and it’s made from natural rubber for durability and easy cleaning in the dishwasher.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
- Available styles: 3
30An Enzyme-Powered Odor Eliminator Spray For Your Yard
This outdoor odor eliminator is designed to tackle unwanted pet odors on artificial turf, patios, concrete, or grass. Attach it to your hose and spray to dilute the formula and evenly distribute it around your yard. It uses natural enzymes to break down odors from urine, poop, or vomit, leaving your yard smelling fresher — without endangering your pets or damaging your lawn.
31Non-Invasive Bristle Caps That Turn Your Finger Into A Toothbrush
“The brushes stay put on my finger when I'm brushing my dog's teeth, and are very easy to clean,” one reviewer wrote about these non-invasive toothbrushes. You get four brushes in a pack, and each one is designed to slip over your finger for better control in your pet’s mouth. The sturdy yet gentle silicone bristles work to clean plaque, freshen breath, and minimize discomfort.
32A Cable-Knit Pet Blanket With A Waterproof Lining
This waterproof dog blanket won’t feel like a compromise to your pet thanks to its cozy fleece-like material on one side and soft cable-knit velvet on the other. It also features an innovative moisture-proof lining to protect your bed or furniture from stains, mud, dirt, and accidents — and it’s machine washable to keep it fresh and free from fur.
- Available sizes: Small — King
- Available styles: 6
33This Dog Food Topper Derived From Nutrient-Dense Bone Broth
If your dog is picky when it comes to their food, try sprinkling some of this topper onto their meals. It’s derived from nutrient-dense bone broth that’s rich in collagen, protein, and minerals, all of which work to help support strong joints. The best part? You’ll find zero fillers, additives, or artificial flavors.
34Irresistible Critter-Shaped Dog Toys Without Any Stuffing
Tired of cleaning up wads of stuffing all over your house? These Skinny Peltz toys purposely don’t have any fill, so even if your dog chews holes in them, they won’t leak. The set includes three different animal designs with long, flat bodies and high-quality squeakers. These tempting toys have also earned an overall 4.5-star rating from more than 65,000 pet owners because their dogs can’t get enough of them.
- Available sizes: Small — Large
35A Best-Selling Dog Perfume That Nourishes Their Skin & Coat
This dog perfume is a number-one bestseller with an average 4.5-star rating from more than 27,000 reviewers. While it neutralizes odors and leaves your pup smelling fresh, it also has probiotics and plant-based extracts to nourish their skin and coat. Get it in your choice of three scents: Blue Ribbon, Royal Lavender, and Show Dog.
- Available styles: 3
36Hypoallergenic Gloves That Let You Give Pets A Quick, No-Rinse Bath
Giving your pet a bath can be a real pain — unless you have these gloves. Simply use them to wipe down your pet, and they’ll help cleanse away built-up sweat and grime so that your pet is left smelling fresh. The best part? They’re infused with glycerin, vitamin E, and coconut oil, all of which help leave your pet’s coat looking shiny.
37A Flirt Pole To Help Dogs Expend Their Excess Energy
This flirt pole is for dogs with lots of energy who aren’t entertained by most toys. “My corgi LOVES this!” one reviewer wrote of this toy, which they called an “excellent toy to get energy out” — not to mention “super easy to use and put together.” It has a long padded handle with an adjustable rope and heavy-duty tails (one with a squeaker and one without) to engage their hunting instincts.
- Available styles: 2
38A White Noise Machine Designed For Anxious Pets
Fireworks, thunderstorms, crate training sessions, separation anxiety — whatever makes your dog nervous, this white noise machine is specifically designed to calm pets. It has an integrated bark sensor that automatically plays nature sounds, white noise, or music when your dog barks, plus you can adjust the volume and the automatic timer settings for further customization.
- Available styles: 2
39Immune Support Chews That Aim To Minimize Allergies
According to reviewers, even picky pets love these allergy relief chews, which come in several flavors including lamb, bison, peanut butter, and smoked salmon. Using ingredients like colostrum, salmon oil, and a six-strain probiotic blend, they’re designed to support your dog’s immune system to minimize itchy skin, ear infections, and seasonal allergies.
- Available styles: 9
40A Probiotic Paw Spray Designed To Reduce Odor & Itchiness
Designed for itchy, irritated paws, this paw spray has probiotics that support your dog’s natural microbiome. As a result, it aims to hydrate dry skin, reduce cracking, neutralize unwanted odors, minimize licking, and defend against harmful bacteria — all without fragrances or medication. “My girl has really sensitive itchy paws,” one reviewer wrote, but this spray is “doing the trick.”
41A Heat-Wicking Blanket That Keeps Your Pup Cool
For heavy-coated breeds or for pups who run hot, this cooling blanket is designed to wick body heat, allowing your dog to feel more comfortable in warm environments. It’s also protective for your furniture and machine washable to keep it clean. “Our Husky/Boxer has a thick coat and we live in the desert, so this blanket is definitely helping him keep cool,” one reviewer wrote.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
- Available styles: 6
42A Hands-Free Double Dog Leash You Can Wear Around Your Waist
Walk up to two dogs hands free with this double dog leash that secures around your waist with an adjustable strap. It features a bungee-cord design to absorb shock, a rotating ring to prevent tangling, and reflective strips to keep you visible in the dark. If you want to use it as a traditional leash, it also has a padded handle that detaches from the waist strap, too.
- Available styles: 12
43Nontoxic Peanut Butter Specifically For Dogs
Most pups love peanut butter, but some brands may contain xylitol — an artificial sweetener that’s toxic to dogs. This Mighty Paw Bark'n Butter contains just one ingredient: dry roasted peanuts, so it’s free from xylitol (as well as palm oil and salt for dogs on diets). It’s also tasty enough to mask the taste of medications and easy to spread on lick pads for a worry-free treat.
44Delicious Treats That Help You Feed Pills To Stubborn Dogs
Consider these treats a must-have if your dog is stubborn when it comes to eating pills. Each treat features a small pocket on the inside where you can hide a pill — so there’s a good chance your dog won’t even realize they’re being fed medication. Choose from four flavors: cheese, chicken, hickory, or peanut butter.
45An Orthopedic Bed Topped With Cozy Faux Fur
Owners and picky pets alike love this orthopedic dog bed because it’s covered in stylish yet washable shearling-like faux fur and filled with cushy foam stuffing for comfort. Plus, the egg crate-style construction of the inner foam layer is great for supporting pets’ joints.
- Available styles: 12
46A Gel Air Freshener That Neutralizse Pet Odors
No matter how well you clean your home, pet odors are hard to escape. This Pet Scents deodorizing gel is infused with baking soda to neutralize stubborn odors, and they come in two scents: Fresh Breeze or Lavender Fields. “I have three dogs and this gel does wonders at removing the dog smell from our home. I love the fresh light scent and that it’s not overpowering. This product lasts for a long time and is simple to use by just setting it in the area you want odors to be eliminated,” raved one reviewer.
- Available styles: 2
47A Concentrated Kennel Cleaner That Tackles Odors Fast
“This product came highly recommended by my vet and I was not disappointed. It eliminated the odor and left everything smelling fresh once again,” one reviewer wrote about this kennel odor eliminator. Concentrated to make up to 64 gallons, it’s designed to remove unwanted smells from kennels, crates, turf, flooring, and gravel in one single wash. Better yet, it’s safe on most surfaces.
- Available styles: 3
48A Fun Puzzle That Forces Your Dog To Think If They Want Treats
Looking for ways to keep your dog entertained? Search no further than this puzzle. Once you’ve hidden treats inside the compartments, your dog will have to figure out how to slide them open if they want a snack — and you can even use it as a slow-feed bowl if they tend to eat their meals too fast. Choose from two colors: blue or pink.
49This Handy Nail Grinder Designed For Use On Any Dog Breed
You don’t have to pay for a professional to trim your dog’s nails. Enter: this grinder. The universal design makes it suitable for use with dogs of any size — and an LED light built into the tip makes it easy to see when your dog’s nails are sufficiently trimmed. Plus, the battery delivers up to seven hours of use before it needs to be recharged.
50A Harness That Doubles As A Cute Backpack
An adjustable harness and a storage pack in one, this cute puppy backpack fits dogs between 10 and 15 pounds. In addition to its roomy main compartment (which can hold toys, collapsible bowls, and treats), it also has a zippered compartment that dispenses poop bags. Get it in your choice of three corduroy colors: blue, green, and purple.
- Available styles: 3
51The Handy Paw Washer That Helps Keep Floors Spotless
Don’t let your dog track dirt into your home. Instead, use this washer on their paws before they come inside. The silicone bristles gently cleanse away everything from dirt to leaves with a few gentle twists. But if that isn’t enough? The compact size makes it easy to take with you — just in case you want to give your dog a quick clean before they hop into the car.
52This Security Camera That Lets You Talk To Your Pets While You’re Away
Ever wonder what your pets get up to while you’re away from home? Then this security camera is a must-have. High-definition video quality combined with night vision make it easy to see what your pet is doing, while two-way audio lets you talk to them remotely. “It’s so easy to use and has great video quality,” wrote one reviewer. “I love how at night, it’s able to shift to night mode and you can see everything very clearly.”
53A Delicious Food Topper Made From Real Chicken
Got a dog that refuses to eat their food? Try sprinkling some of this delicious topper onto their meals. It’s made from real chicken that’s high in protein, and free from any artificial additives, colors, or preservatives. “These food toppers are great,” wrote one reviewer. “Makes your dog feel fancy, like she's getting fresh parm grated over her pasta at the local trattoria.”
54The Waterproof Cover That Helps Keep Your Back Seat Clean
Don’t even think about putting your pet into the back seat of your car until you’ve put this cover down. The universal design makes it suitable for use in just about any vehicle — and since it’s waterproof, it’ll even protect your upholstery from accidents as well as hair and scratches. Choose from five colors: black, beige, and more.
55This Clever Gadget That Helps Deter Your Dog From Barking
When no amount of scolding seems to stop your dog from barking, it may be time to try out this gadget. It lets out an unpleasant, ultrasonic sound that only dogs can hear, helping deter them from barking in a completely humane fashion. The best part? With a range of up to 23 feet, you won’t have to get up from the couch in order to use it.
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