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Best dog Christmas jumpers for the festive season

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If you're welcoming a new pup into your home this Christmas time, ensuring you have a bundle of the best puppy toys to keep your little pooch entertained is just as vital as making sure you've got plenty of dog food and a comfy bed. Playtime is important for a puppy’s physical and mental development, so you’ll want to make sure you have a variety of :a[dog toys]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-toys/' } to challenge them and get their brain working, but also ones that will allow them to burn off lots of energy and engage in exercise.

Aside from all the puppy cuddles and kisses, one of the best things about having a puppy is playing with them and discovering what toys spark joy inside them. If you find a good toy for your pup, you’ll certainly know about it because it’ll be the one they reach for every time they’re in the mood to play. Depending on the type of toy, they’ll probably try and take it everywhere with them, too. However, puppies soon get bored so you may go through a few toys in the first year of their life as, just like children, what keeps them engaged and entertained changes as they grow up.

**• Best overall puppy toy:** KONG Small Puppy Toy – :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/KONG-Natural-Teething-Rubber-Puppies/dp/B0002AR18C?tag=tabparticle1217-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**• Best puppy toy for teething pups:** Nylabone Gentle Puppy Dog Teething Chew Toy Keys – :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nylabone-N220P-Puppy-Teething-Small/dp/B0002DGM7K?tag=tabparticle1217-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**• Best rope toy for puppies:** Wainwright's Just for Puppy Rope Hedgehog Toy – :a[View on Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/wainwrights-just-for-puppy-rope-hedgehog-toy' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

The best puppy toys are the perfect gift for any new pup, whether you've welcomed a new bundle of joy into your own home or you know friends or family members who have, but what type of puppy toy should you buy? If you’re after a toy that will engage your pup’s mind, help them learn problem-solving skills and develop cognitive abilities, :a[interactive toys]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/interactive-dog-toys/' } and puzzle toys are the way to go. Little hounds will need to use their brain to figure out how to activate certain elements and release treats, such as food and other toys from inside. To save furniture and clothing from being gnawed at while they are teething, having a selection of :a[puppy chew toys]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-puppy-chew-toys/' } available is always a good idea as they will soothe their painful teeth and gums, and promote good chewing habits. Of course, there are plenty of rope, throwing and chasing toys out there that will make sure your pup gets a good run around during playtime. These types of toys are great for you to enjoy some bonding one-on-one time with your newest furry family member.

As there are so many different types of puppy toys available, it can be hard to whittle down which ones are worth buying for your pup. Luckily, we’ve done all the research for you and searched the web to bring you all the best puppy toys that will aid their development. Some are much-loved by many real-life puppy owners and others have been tried and tested by some of our team's pups to ensure we're recommending you the best of the best so you know exactly what should go at the top of your puppy's Christmas toy wish list.

### What are the best toys for puppies? {#h-what-are-the-best-toys-for-puppies}

There are various types of puppy toys out there that offer physical and mental stimulation and challenges, both of which are vital to your pup’s development. Of course, every pup is different and some will prefer a certain type of toy compared to others but here are some of the top choices available to keep your pooch entertained as they grow:

As puppies grow, so do their teeth so to soothe the pain of their sensitive gums and teeth, get them some chew toys to gnaw on. They’ll also promote healthy chewing habits and save your shoes and furniture from being victims of your pup’s sharp gnashers.

These types of toys are great for playful and inquisitive pups. They’ll provide your pup with some mental stimulation as :a[interactive toys]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/interactive-dog-toys/' } challenge their mind as they figure out what they need to do to activate the sound or find the treat.

Puzzle toys are very similar to interactive toys and they usually dispense treats so pups will need to figure out how to complete the puzzle to get the food or toy out.

These types of toys can be used in supervised solo play as pups love to chew on them, but equally, they’re great for using during playtime with you and your puppy. Pups love nothing more than a good old-fashioned game of tug of war and playing together will be a bonding experience between you.

Every dog needs a :a[soft toy]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/soft-toys-for-dogs/' } to cuddle up to, and they can provide great comfort to pups if they’re feeling a little anxious. Just make sure you choose one with strong stitching so it can withstand a good chewing.

Does your pup need a helping hand to burn off some of their excess energy? Balls, frisbees or other objects for fetch games are what you need. They’re great for making sure your pup gets plenty of exercise too.

:a[Dog toys with a squeak]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/squeaky-dog-toys/' } inside will engage your pup's mind as they try to figure out where the sound is coming from, not to mention keep them active as they'll chase, pounce, shake and chew them.

### What are the signs that my puppy has outgrown a toy?

There are a couple of signs that your puppy has outgrown their toy, either from the toy or from your pup themselves. If your pup consistently ignores a toy that was once their favourite, it's probably time to let it go as this is a sign that they're disinterested in playing with it and probably feel bored of it. You should consider introducing more engaging toys for those pooches who seem unchallenged while playing.

Toys that have visible wear and tear should be retired too. Your pup may have had many happy weeks or months playing with a toy but if it's looking tired and has bits coming off it, it's best to dispose of it.

Of course, one of the biggest visible signs is simply that your pup looks too big to be playing with it. Small parts and toys can become choking hazards as a dog gets bigger so you should make sure your dog's toys aren't small enough for them to fit completely in their mouth.

_:a[Rosie Floyd]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/author/rosie-floyd/' } is a Pets, Homes and Garden Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things dogs. She grew up always having at least one dog as part of the family and has experience in owning a variety of breeds, including Labradors, Cockapoos and Yorkshire Terriers._

Best puppy toys to keep your new arrival entertained this Christmas and beyond

The most wonderful time of the year will be here before you know it, and if, like us, you like to get the whole family involved in celebrating, you’ll want to take a look at our top picks for the best dog Christmas jumpers. A Christmas jumper is essential when the festive season rolls around, and not just for us humans. Your canine companion will look adorable and hilarious in equal measure when they’re sporting their new knitwear throughout December.

Christmas is a time for everyone to get festive so it’s only natural that we want to find the best dog Christmas jumpers for them to get into the action too. If you and your family love to find the tackiest Chrimbo jumper to wear as an annual tradition, we can guarantee you’ll be able to find a version for your pup, too.

## Best dog Christmas jumpers at a glance:

• **Best gingerbread dog Christmas jumper:** Pets at Home Christmas Gingerbread Dog Jumper – :a[view on Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/pets-at-home-christmas-gingerbread-dog-jumper-multi-coloured' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best snowman dog Christmas jumper:** PETCARE Christmas Pet Dog Sweater – :a[view on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/PETCARE-Christmas-Sweater-Holiday-Knitwear/dp/B08GQ5Z9ZN?tag=tabparticle1052-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best Santa dog Christmas jumper:** Red Santa Belly Pet Jumper – :a[view on Matalan]{href='https://www.matalan.co.uk/gift-pets/red-santa-belly-pet-jumper/14739223.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

As well as classic knitwear, you can get some great novelty jumpers that are sure to put a smile on the faces of anyone your dog encounters on their walks. Whatever style you choose, a Christmas jumper for dogs is a must-have item of :a[pet clothing]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-clothes-for-pet-dog-cat/' } if you have a pooch that just loves to put on an outfit. If your hound doesn’t like dressing up, you can always try a festive bandana or bow tie instead.

A dog Christmas jumper is a great :a[gift for your pet]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/care/best-gifts-pets/' } if you’re wanting to spoil them before Santa Paws has a chance to visit. From classic Christmas sweaters to fun and colourful costumes, we’ve found all the best Christmas jumpers for dogs that will have your pooch looking a-paw-able during the festive season.

## Best dog Christmas jumpers {#h-best-dog-christmas-jumpers}

Christmas jumpers are safe for dogs to wear but you should always be mindful that if your dog gets too hot while wearing one, they could overheat. They may start excessively panting or drooling f they’re too hot and also be restless and generally uncomfortable. If you spot any of these signs, you should immediately take the jumper off to help them lower their body temperature gradually.

The dog Christmas jumper you pick in the first place needs to be the right size to be safe too. You don’t want to choose one that’s too small to restrict your dog’s movements or feel too tight across their body.

### How do I measure my dog for the right size Christmas jumper?

You’ll want to measure your dog with a tape measure to make sure you’ve got the right fit when selecting a Christmas jumper for dogs. Start by measuring the length from the base of their neck to the base of their tail, as well as the width of their chest and around their neck and match them against the size guide provided by the retailer. Remember, the size of your breed may not match the size of your chosen jumper so for example, if you have a small breed, they may need a medium jumper. That’s why it’s important to compare against the size guide before you buy.

Dogs need just as many things as a baby does when you leave the house with them, so it's no surprise that as a pet parent, you've probably found yourself juggling a whole load of necessities in your dog walking bags. From servings of your pooch's :a[dog food]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/the-best-dog-food/' } to toys and your necessities, too, you'll be surprised how much you can fit into a walking bag.

Obviously, you need somewhere to put all your dog's favourite things and everything they need for their outdoor adventure. Items like your dog's favourite ball, a backup ball in case that gets lost along the way, a portable water bowl, dog waste bags, :a[tasty biscuits]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-biscuits-uk/' } and treats, training equipment and so on!

• **Best compact dog walking bag:** Pet Room Dog Walking Bag - :a[view on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pet-Room-Training-Collapsible-Adjustable/dp/B07R9SMG94?tag=tabparticle1001-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best bum bag:** Outdoor Paws by Petface Dog Walkers Bum Bag - :a[view on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Outdoor-Paws-Petface-Dog-Walkers/dp/B00WK34YY8?tag=tabparticle1001-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best for walking holidays:** Mobile Dog Gear Unisex Weekender Backpack - :a[view on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dog-Travel-Bag-Weekender-Collapsible/dp/B07F7MGC9K?tag=tabparticle1001-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Don't forget you'll also need to have enough room to include your own essentials like house keys, car keys, sunglasses, refreshments, a mobile phone, sunscreen, a hat, emergency plasters for blisters and any extra layers in case it gets cold. For this reason, we often need multi-functional dog walking bags that cover all bases.

If you prefer to keep your dog's belongings to a minimum and are looking for a dog walking bum bag, we have options for you to choose from. Or, if you really do like to carry everything including the kitchen sink on a hike, we've selected the best walking bags for all kinds of walks. Whatever type of dog walking bag you are looking for, we've got search the web to bring you a selection of the very best.

## Best dog walking bags {#h-best-dog-walking-bags}

### What type of dog walking bags are there? {#h-what-type-of-dog-walking-bags-are-there}

It all depends on what you need to take with you on your dog walk which determines the style of dog walking bags you should choose. Whether it's a brief dog walk with a bum bag, a long hike with a backpack, or you're happy to sling a cross-body bag over one shoulder, we've covered all the bases.

Here are some of the most common types of dog walking bags:

• Sling shoulder dog walking bag  
• Cross-body dog walking bag  
• Bum-bag dog walking bag  
• Waist pack dog walking bag  
• Backpack dog walking bag

Furthermore, you also need to factor in what type of material your bag is, so look out for waterproof options if there's a chance of rain (it's the UK so it's highly likely you could encounter a surprise shower!), or if you need something lightweight that doesn't irritate your skin.

### What should I take with me on a dog walk? {#h-what-should-i-take-with-me-on-a-dog-walk}

If you're a new dog owner and are drawing a blank on what you need to bring with you, whether you're going on a long hike away from home, or are simply quite forgetful (it happens to the best of us!), then we've rounded up a few essentials that you everyone needs to stash in their dog walking bags.

• Dog waste bags  
• Appropriate dog lead, dog walking belt and/or dog harness  
• Treats  
• Water (and a :a[dog travel water bowl/bottle]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/dog-travel-water-bowls-bottles/' } to put it in for your pooch)  
• Antibacterial wipes  
• Raincoat (especially if you live in the UK)  
• Mobile phone  
• Money/bank card  
• Snacks for you  
• Potentially a whistle  
• Some sort of ball or dog toy

_:a[Natalie Corner]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/author/natalie-corner/' } is the Commercial Content Editor across the Specialist Portfolio for Bauer Media specialising in dog care. Her beloved cocker spaniel Dash is a keen tester of all dog treats and food, and will always show off his wagging tail for Take A Break Pets._

Dog walking bags to carry all your pet’s outdoor necessities

Pooches have to be on a :a[dog lead]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-leads/' } in most public spaces by law in the UK, but they don't always have to be restrictive, retractable dog leads are the perfect way to give your pet freedom and allow you to feel in control.

With a retractable lead, the leash part is concealed within the handle. The lead extends with your dog and when they get back closer to you, it retracts. These extendable leads also have lock buttons, so if your dog does start pulling away from you, you can choose the length of lead they have.

## Best retractable dog leads at a glance:

• **Best all-around retractable dog lead:** TUG Patented Lead - :a[view on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/TUG-Tangle-Free-Retractable-Anti-Slip-One-Handed/dp/B07BBR2YWR?tag=tabparticle1021-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best retractable dog lead for smaller dogs:** Flexi New Comfort Retractable Dog Lead - :a[view on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/flexi-Comfort-Retractable-Extendable-5m-12kg/dp/B08DMY2KB7?tag=tabparticle1021-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best retractable dog lead for bigger dogs:** Flexi Extending Dog Lead - :a[view on Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/flexi-extending-dog-lead-new-comfort-tape-8m-black-large' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best retractable dog lead for after-dark walks:** Flexi Reflective Tape Extending Lead - :a[view on Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/flexi-extending-dog-lead-medium-tape-5m-neon-green' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

There are a few things to consider before buying a retractable lead. For example, do they pull a lot? Do they chew their lead? How strong are they? These factors will contribute to what lead you should choose. If you're :a[training your dog to walk]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/how-to-train-dog-to-walk-on-lead/' } on a lead, a retractable lead isn't suitable as it'll give you less control of their movement. However, if you are looking to give your pooch more free reign, extendable leads are a great choice.

Without any further ado, here are our top picks of the best retractable dog leads on the market.

## Best retractable dog leads {#h-best-retractable-dog-leads}

## Why do dogs pull on their lead? {#h-why-do-dogs-pull-on-their-lead}

Dogs usually pull on their lead out of excitement and curiosity as they are exposed to new environments. However, too much pulling can strain their neck and hurt you as well as they tug.

If your pooch is a puller, you may be better off getting them a specially designed :a[lead for dogs that pull]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/leads-for-dogs-that-pull/' } that you can use while you're training them to stop.

## How do I stop my dog from pulling on extendable leads? {#h-how-do-i-stop-my-dog-from-pulling-on-extendable-leads}

According to experts at :a[Tails.com]{href='https://tails.com/blog/2018/11/27/how-to-stop-your-dog-pulling-on-the-lead/?awc=6074_1623923501_1e4174624da125a178a763c86a4256f8&amp;utm_source=78888&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_campaign=50offfirstbox' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}, there are many ways you can train your dog not to pull. Here are some training tips:

‘Heel’ is a great command to introduce when you’re getting a puppy used to its first lead.

1\. When your dog tries to run off, say ‘heel’ in a clear, calm voice to get their attention.

2\. Wait until they look back at you – this will make the lead go slack.

3\. At that moment, reward them with a treat.

4\. Repeat until you can use the ‘heel’ command to keep the lead slack and your dog’s attention focused on you.

Stopping a walk every time your dog pulls is a great way to teach them that walks are less fun when they try to do their own thing.

1\. When your dog pulls on the lead, say ‘stop’ in a loud but calm voice.

2\. Stand still until your dog stops pulling and the lead goes slack.

Dogs usually pull because they’ve seen or smelt something exciting. The ‘stop and turn’ technique teaches your dog that pulling isn’t an effective way to get where they want to go. It also gets their attention firmly back on you. Use ‘stop and turn’ like this:

1\. When your dog pulls, say ‘stop’ in a loud, clear, calm voice.

2\. Immediately change direction or turn in a tight circle.

3\. Reward your dog when they follow you.

_:a[Ellen Kinsey]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/author/ellen-kinsey/' } is a senior health and wellness product writer for Take A Break, specialising in natural health. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness._

Retractable dog leads to help you get the most out of walks

**Here's a sneak peek at issue 50's cover stories**

**_When my childhood crush became my br_**_**other, I thought it was the** **end of the road for our love. By Zoe Haughton, 38**_

I scribbled the date at the top of my diary and began writing my entry underneath.

Danny sat next to me today and I’m sure there was a spark.

I was 13 and in love with the boy who lived over the road. Danny was three years older than me and had blue eyes that twinkled and made me feel funny inside.

All the girls fancied him, so I didn’t think I stood a chance. But recently I’d noticed he was paying me a lot of attention.

Eventually I plucked up the courage to tell Danny how I felt. I knocked on his door and his dad Terry answered.

‘I’m sorry, love,’ Terry replied. ‘He’s gone.’

‘He’s moved back in with his mum,’ Terry said.

I was heartbroken, but there was nothing I could do.

Two years went by, then one day I came home from school to find Terry sitting in the living room with my mum.

‘We’ve got something to tell you,’ Mum said.

My heart leapt thinking they had a message for me from Danny.

But instead Mum said: ‘Terry and I are a couple now.’

In time Terry moved in with us, yet there was never any talk of Danny coming to visit. But then Mum made an announcement.

My first thought was: Danny will definitely come to the wedding!

It made me giddy, but the big day arrived and there was no sign of him.

Another two years went by, then one day Terry popped his head around my bedroom door and said: ‘Guess who’s coming to visit?’

‘He’s staying for the weekend,’ Terry said. ‘Hope you don’t mind.’

‘Not at all,’ I said, my insides practically doing a jig with excitement.

In the days leading up to his arrival, I spent hours getting ready and practising saying hello to him.

But when the day came, I was a nervous wreck. The second I saw those sparkling blue eyes, I forgot everything I’d planned to say — I just stood there with my mouth opening and closing like a fish.

And my hopes and dreams went through the floor.

And worse was to come. As Danny told us all about his life, it turned out he had a girlfriend.

I couldn’t wait for Sunday to arrive and for him to leave.

But over the next few months, Danny came to visit several times.

It was torture knowing he was with someone else.

‘I’ve split up with my girlfriend,’ he said.

I tried not to get my hopes up but it was impossible.

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