Pet Rock, The Original by Gary Dahl
✓ Product data checked October 29, 2026
The Pet Rock is the 1975 novelty created by Gary Dahl, back in its original form: a rock of about 2 inches, delivered in its own personal travel crate, ready to be adopted. It needs no food, no walks and no batteries, which is the whole joke. Rated 4.5 across 713 reviews on Amazon US, at about $30.
Why it makes a good gift
Best for : A friend who always wanted a pet and has no time for one, or a 1970s nostalgic.
Best occasion : White elephant exchange, an office party, a retirement joke.
Why it works : Paying for a rock in a crate is the joke, and everyone at the table gets it; the person who wins it usually ends up naming it and keeping it on a desk for years.
Avoid if : Your exchange is capped at $25: it costs about $30.
For
Friend, Him, Her, Coworker
Budget
$$ — Affordable
Frequently asked questions
How big is the rock?
About 2 inches, according to the listing.
Does it come with a box?
Yes, a personal travel crate.
Is it the original?
The listing presents it as The Original by Gary Dahl, creator of the 1975 fad.
