Best Memorial Gifts for a Dog Who Has Passed Away

Wait a little, if you can

The week after a loss is full of casseroles and cards. A memorial portrait that arrives six weeks later, when the house has gone quiet again, tends to land harder — in a good way.

What to give

These are the pieces our customers most often choose for someone else.

• —A memorial portrait made from a photo the family already loves
• —Framed memorial artwork with the dog's name and dates
• —An engraved keepsake pendant they can wear daily
• —A memorial ornament, so there's a place for the dog on the tree
• —A memorial blanket, which is used rather than displayed

What to write

Short is kinder than eloquent. A name and two dates is enough. If you want a line, these are the ones people choose most often:

• —Forever loved.
• —Always in our hearts.
• —Until we meet again.
• —Loved beyond words.

What to avoid

Avoid anything that implies the person needs help remembering, anything that ranks their grief against human loss, and anything that puts a countdown or a bargain on it. Also avoid choosing the photo yourself if you can ask — the photo matters more than the product.

If you're buying for yourself

Buying a memorial keepsake for your own dog is not sentimentality. Most people tell us that having a good portrait on the wall makes the dog easier to talk about, not harder. Start with our pet memorial collection, or read our guide to meaningful pet memorial ideas.