Finding the right pet products can get expensive (I would hate to know how much I’ve spent on vet-recommended kibble my dog won’t eat and expert-reviewed toys he’s never touched). Pet parents know the joy of finding a product that actually delights your furry friend, or makes living with them a little less… animalistic.
I polled my PEOPLE Shopping colleagues — many of whom are longtime pet parents — to share the cat and dog products that truly changed the game for them. We’ve got recommendations for every stage of life, from puppies to senior cats, including beds, toys, and pet hair-removing hacks.
PEOPLE-Approved Pet Products
“Thank you, senior editor and Golden Retriever mom Alex Warner for putting the FurZapper on my radar nearly a year ago. These non-toxic, endlessly reusable discs have a slightly tacky feel, which magnetizes fur, hair, lint, and other detritus in the washing machine and dryer. Most of that gunk gets funneled to the lint trap, and the FurZapper just needs a rinse with a little soap, and it’s good as new.” — Nicola Fumo, senior shopping editor
“I have two senior cats who are super picky about where they lounge around the house — and I have tried every cat bed out there. While they love to hang out under my bed all day, I recently tried to coax them out with an alluring and super cozy cat cave. For a few weeks, there was some tension over who got to nap in the cave. Finally, I just ordered a second one. And while they never simultaneously lounge in their side-by-side beds, there is always one cat in there snoozing pretty much all day.” — Kayla Kitts, shopping editor
“I can’t explain why, but my picky foster-fail cat is obsessed with the Cat Dancer toy. It’s little more than a piece of wire with cardboard attached, but it captures her attention better than any other cat toy I’ve tried! And a quick scan through the Amazon reviews shows that shoppers agree.” — Cai Cramer, shopping writer
“After watching my pit bull mix completely shred a new stuffed toy in less than 10 minutes, I knew I needed something more durable for playtime. I came across this GoDog dinosaur plush during Prime Day, and I’m already looking for another one to add to my pup’s toy collection. Thanks to its fluff-free body and chew-resistant lining, she can toss it around and gnaw on it for hours (which she does) without ripping open a seam or pulling out the squeaker.” — Kayla Kitts, shopping editor
“I’ve been a cat mom for over 15 years, and these pet grooming gloves are better than all the others I’ve tried. I’m always amazed at how much hair, dirt, and dander they remove — no furballs here! My cat JC is left with such a shiny, sleek, and soft coat, and thanks to their versatile design, it makes the grooming process effortless.” — Toni Sutton, shopping writer
“My Golden Retriever gets hot spots and skin irritations from hot pavement, environmental allergies, and more. Floof’s Smart Skin Spray has quickly earned a place in our post-walk routine. I spray the skin between Stevie’s paw pads and the cooling sensation gives her instant relief. She has stopped chewing on her paws as often, and they aren’t an angry red color anymore. Plus, the spray is lick-safe.” — Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“I love this Lesure donut dog bed for a few reasons. My very picky Chihuahua finds it super calming. It has matching waterproof blanket (seriously, stains roll right off), and the purple checked pattern is absolutely adorable.” — Erin Johnson, associate editorial director
“The folks behind Diaper Genie created this disposal system for used poop bags, and I wish I could gift one to everyone with a pet. I’m so sensitive to smells, and this thing fully blocks odor. I throw post-walk poop bags or used puppy pads in here and don’t have to worry about lingering smells.” — Erin Johnson, associate editorial director