Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

The 12 Days of Christmas If Written by Dogs

The 12 Days of Christmas If Written by Dogs

Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every Wednesday, we share a story from one of our Dogsters. This week is about Amanda and her sweet Chihuahua, Subi.

Christmas songs are the tree toppers of holiday parties. It is impossible not to feel joy or the Christmas spirit when the classics are buzzing in the background of a holiday party. The 12 Days of Christmas is an especially fun one that sparks impromptu singalongs, usually ending in a debate about the number of geese-a-laying or maids-a-milking. A quintessential tune that’s bound to carry us through a lifetime of holiday seasons.

“My true love,” as the song states, could be anyone special in our lives. However, for our pets, that person is likely us. And while this might not be a hit just yet, we can guarantee that this 12 Days of Christmas from a dog’s perspective is relatable to all the doting dog owners out there.

So, what would the song look like if it were written by a pack of doggos? This is our rendition of the holiday classic with a twist!

The 12 Days of a Canine Christmas

Subi under the Christmas tree

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

Subi sitting by the Santa Claus decoration

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Seven walks – I’m wagging,
  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

Subi sitting on her butt in the dog bed

On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Eight bones for biting,
  • Seven walks – I’m wagging,
  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Nine naps-a-napping,
  • Eight bones for biting,
  • Seven walks – I’m wagging,
  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Ten twigs for fetching,
  • Nine naps-a-napping,
  • Eight bones for biting,
  • Seven walks – I’m wagging,
  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

Subi sitting by the bed with toys

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Eleven nuzzled kisses,
  • Ten twigs for fetching,
  • Nine naps-a-napping,
  • Eight bones for biting,
  • Seven walks – I’m wagging,
  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

  • Twelve tasty treats,
  • Eleven nuzzled kisses,
  • Ten twigs for fetching,
  • Nine naps-a-napping,
  • Eight bones for biting,
  • Seven walks – I’m wagging,
  • Six brand new socks,
  • Five table scraps!
  • Four belly rubs,
  • Three tug-a-ropes,
  • Two twirling frisbees and
  • One bouncing ball for me to chase!

Subi in her dog bed under the Christmas tree

Seasoned Grillings

Normally, we’d end with wishing you Season’s Greetings, but we think our dogs would appreciate a nice slice of turkey and a side of sweet potato instead. We hope you enjoy this canine-friendly take on a festive classic. From our family at Dogster to yours, Happy Holidays!

This article features Amanda and Subi in our Wednesday Dogs of Dogster series.

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.


How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

2 Responses

  1. The 12 Days of Christmas-as if written by a dog- is delightful!
    I sent in on to my friends, my sons, (Bitzie, Zippy, Collyie, Juno) and, of course, read to our 13 year old Sheltie, Bella!
    It will be our new Christmas Eve tradition each year going forward.
    Thank you so very much for sharing!

    1. Hello Holly.

      What a wonderful idea! We are very happy that you liked our doggy version of this Christmas classic. We wish you beautiful holidays and many many years following this new tradition of yours!

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.


Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Why Does My Dog Steal My Shoes? 6 Likely Reasons & Tips

You go to grab your favorite sneakers and find that one is missing. You eventually find it in your dog’s bed. Or maybe...

29 Common Whippet Colors & Markings (With Info & Pictures)

Whippets are amazing dogs that are affectionate and get along well with children and other pets. While the puppies can be mischievous, the...

10 DIY Dog Sweater Ideas You Can Make Today (With Pictures)

Dog sweaters are more than just a stylish fashion choice; they’re a necessity in some climates to keep your dog warm during outdoor...

7 Best Indestructible & Chew-Proof Dog Beds in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

Many dog breeds tend to chew on their belongings, especially if they are still puppies or spend a lot of time on their...

More related

8 Best Dog Barking Deterrents in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

If you’re reading this, you probably have a dog that enjoys a good barking session—and it’s probably irritating you and your neighbors. Dogs...

Why Do Dogs Roll in the Grass? 9 Vet-Reviewed Reasons & How to Help It

Dogs do many weird things that humans do not seem to understand, at least until they get to know our pets. One strange...

15 Most Vocal Dog Breeds: Info, Pictures & History

Whether you’re a dog owner or you’re considering becoming one, how vocal a dog breed is can be a major determining factor when...

How Often to Bathe a Goldendoodle: Vet-Approved Facts, Tips & FAQ

A Goldendoodle is super cute and cuddly, and their coat has a mix of traits from their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents. It...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Butter? Vet-Approved Nutrition Advice

It isn’t uncommon to feed your dog a bite or two from your plate; our canine pals are always overjoyed to get a taste of what we’re eating! But not everything we like eating is healthy or safe for our...

Can Dogs Eat Butter

10 Best Dog Foods on Chewy in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

As a dog owner, can you even keep up anymore with all these recent changes in dog diets? It can get so confusing as things change, wondering what the best options are for your best buddy. Luckily, we can help...

dog eating in a food bowl

How to Properly Store Dog Food: 14 Vet-Approved Tips

Proper storage for dog food is vital for maintaining its flavor and nutritional value. Like human food, improperly stored dog food can go stale and invite bacteria, mold, insects, and rodents. However, many people could use a bit of help...

ready to eat dog food in a container box

Can Dogs Eat Strawberries? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

Strawberries are one of the most cherished summertime fruits because of their healthy properties and sweet flavor. A plump and juicy strawberry is hard to resist, but can dogs eat strawberries? Yes, your dog can enjoy a few strawberries since...

Can Dogs Eat Strawberries

What Are Tocopherols in Dog Food? Vet-Verified Nutritional Facts

Commercial dog food is what most owners feed their dogs because it’s convenient, and affordable compared to homemade food, and typically offers all the nutrients that a dog needs to thrive and enjoy a high quality of life. Many different...

dog eating dog food

Can Dogs Eat Cool Whip? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

Cool Whip is a summer favorite—a perfect topping for all hot weather treats! It is no wonder that our dogs want a dollop for themselves! If your dog got into the goodies or you just want to spruce up your...

Can Dogs Eat Cool Whip

Can Dogs Drink Anything Other Than Water? 6 Vet-Approved Options

Dogs need water to stay hydrated, but did you know that water isn’t the only thing dogs can drink? There are other canine-friendly options they can enjoy alongside their main bowl of fresh water. These options can encourage your dog...

Can Dogs Eat Granola

Can Dogs Eat Asparagus? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Depending on how they’re prepared, most vegetables are safe, even beneficial, for dogs to eat, including asparagus. Asparagus is a fiber-rich vegetable that is high in several vitamins and minerals. It is a popular addition to many spring dishes and...

Can Dogs Eat_Asparagus