Pets Are the Main Character: 9 in 10 Pet Parents Say Holidays Feel Incomplete Without Them

Our pets aren’t just on the sidelines—they’re the hosts of the holiday season.

Whether it’s posing for photos, supervising gift wrapping, or “helping” bake cookies, pets are front and center for every moment.

Nearly 9 in 10 pet parents (88%) say the holidays wouldn’t feel complete without including their pets in the festivities.

• 60% plan to feature pets in holiday photos or cards.
• 45% have already picked out matching outfits or accessories for the big day.
• 40% of pet parents admit pets steal the spotlight.

Pet parents are making sure furry friends have their own spot on the nice list:

• 78% plan to buy at least one gift for their pet.
• 47% will buy three or more gifts for their animal bestie.
• Over half (54%) of pets get their own holiday stocking.
• 38% say pets “assist” with wrapping and unwrapping, and it’s not just human children that try to sneak a peek at presents—25% try to unwrap early.
• 51% of pets will chow down on a special holiday meal or treat.

Gen Z and Millennial pet parents spend the most on holiday gifts for their pets, with 21% spending $100 or more. Just 13% of Gen X pet parents and 4% of Boomer pet parents plan to splurge.

The most drool-worthy splurge gifts:

• New toys or gadgets
• Cozy sweaters, PJs, or accessories
• A health and wellness splurge, like a spa day or DNA test

Need more proof that pets are the real VIPs of the holiday season? In 21% of households, pets open their gifts first—before their humans.

Whether we’re at home or on-the-go, our pets set the agenda, and we build our together time around them.

• 24% plan to bake or cook pet-safe holiday recipes.
• 43% of pet parents plan to play in the snow with their furry friend.
• 21% will visit a holiday light show with their pet along for the ride.
• 8% will even take their pets caroling!
• 22% adjust their holiday plans so they can bring pets.

Each pet celebrates the season in their own unique way—but when it comes to dogs and cats, there are definitely some trends:

The verdict: It’s a tight race, but dogs beat cats to the top of the Nice List. (Don’t take it personally, cat parents—we know your pet’s quirky personality only makes them more lovable.)

Here’s how pet parents are making the season magical for small and exotic pets like guinea pigs, bunnies, birds, and beyond. 

• 43%: Giving them a new toy, perch, or enrichment item
• 35%: Buying or making special holiday treats for them
• 27%: Dressing them up in safe, holiday-themed apparel or accessories
• 27%: Including them in family photos or holiday cards
• 24%: Giving them extra attention or playtime
• 22%: Setting up a mini “holiday corner” or display around their habitat

Top trending holiday pet names:

1. Bailey
2. Angel
3. Cookie
4. Holly
5. Cocoa
6. Joy
7. Candy
8. Coal
9. Bell
10. Frosty

Top holiday pet nicknames:

• Grinch is the No. 1 most popular holiday nickname—perfect for pets channeling their naughty side!
• Santa Paws is the second most popular nickname–for pets who are simply sweet all season long.

More fun nicknames from our survey:

• Snowpaw
• Snowball
• Jingle Paws
• Twinkle Toes
• Snicker Doodle
• Stinkerbell
• Roscoe the Red Nose Doggy
• Elffy
• Santa’s Helper
• Reinda

• Wardrobe dept: Nearly half of Millennial and Gen Z pet parents (47%) dress their pets in sweaters or hoodies for the holidays—more than double the number of Boomers (21%). Over a third (35%) go all in with matching family pajamas.
• Santa-coded: 38% of Millennial pet parents say their pet’s holiday gift is signed “from Santa”—a whimsical tradition that’s twice as popular compared to Boomers (19%).
• Camera roll (and hearts) full: 64% take holiday photos with their pets, and 51% go the extra mile by including those snapshots in their holiday cards.
• Wheels up: 47% of Millennial and Gen Z pet parents bring their pets along on holiday trips, and 36% even adjust their travel plans to make sure their furry companions can come too.
• Travel treats: One in five pet parents (21%) buy souvenirs or gifts for their pets while traveling.

You told us your pet parent pledges for 2026. These are just a few of our faves:

• “Play more rock for my parakeets. ZZ Top is their favorite to bop to.”
• “Spoil my pet with regular massages.”
• “Make bath time a vibe so he actually enjoys it.”
• “Bring home a sister for my dog for a built-in best friend.”
• “Book cat-friendly hotels so my cat can travel with me.”
• “Make homemade chicken strips weekly.”
• “Upgrade to an automatic litter box, so our smart home is smarter.”
• “Better shedding control in the new year because HAIR. EVERYWHERE.”
• “Help my herding dog chill so he stops ‘herding’ me all day.”
• “Install a pet door so my cat can strut to his catio on demand.”

Shop our lists for the best dog gifts and best cat gifts, whip up a special DIY holiday-themed treat and send a letter to Chewy Claus for a chance to have your pet’s ultimate Christmas wish fulfilled.