Small Dog Gift Giving Guide: Dana's Holiday Picks

Chill Pill Mobile Speakers: I know a lot of people already know about these speakers, but, come on, how can they not be the number one item?! I was blown away by how great these little speakers sound and how easy they are to carry with you…and best of all they don’t need batteries!

Hammerhead Stylus for iPad/iPhone/iPod touch: Okay, at first I was thinking, “Why do I need a stylus?” I mean, I haven’t used one since my Palm V back in the early 2000s!  But after using this stylus, I am hooked, especially on the iPad for taking meeting notes.

Apple TV: It amazes me how many people are not aware of Apple TV. This has to be the most overlooked product coming out of Cupertino. The current generation of Apple TV is only a bit bigger than a hockey puck but packs a punch. Mirroring your iPad 2 or iPhone 4S onto your TV and home sharing your music and movies from iTunes are great, and the built-in Netflix, VUDU, YouTube and Flickr apps rock. For $99.99, how can you go wrong?

Doggy Bag: I know you are thinking, “Is this guy nuts? He works for a tech company and is suggesting plastic dogs.”  Yes, it’s true I may be nuts (my kids think so), but this item is THE perfect stocking stuffer. You put this in the kids’ stockings and it will keep them busy for hours.

Editor’s note: We’ll be featuring Small Dog staffers’ holiday wish lists and gift recommendations here through the end of the week. Stop by often to find out what we think would make great presents this holiday season! Some items may take up to 10 days to ship, so be sure to order early. Our holiday shipping schedule is available at smalldog.com/shipping. SR

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