National Make a Dog’s Day: ways to celebrate our canine friends

There’s no denying that dogs bring so much joy to our lives, so as today is National Make a Dog’s Day, it’s the perfect chance for us to give back to them!

The day urges dog owners and animal lovers alike to appreciate our canine companions while raising awareness about dog welfare and the importance of pet adoption.

Whether it’s a special treat, a longer walk, or simply more attention, this animal awareness day is the perfect chance to make a difference in a dog’s life.

For those without a canine companion, there are still plenty of ways to get involved—volunteering at a local shelter, donating supplies, or helping spread the word about the benefits of adoption.

It’s a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting dogs everywhere.

How to celebrate and appreciate our loyal canine companions

Dogs have played essential roles in human society for thousands of years, serving as companions, workers, protectors, and more.

To help you plan how you’ll return the love to them, we’ve put together a list of 20 ways to celebrate and recognise dogs today (and always, really!): 10 ideas for dog owners to spoil their pets and 10 ways anyone can help improve the lives of dogs, even if they don’t have one.

Engaging in activities that promote wellbeing and happiness for dogs contributes to a larger movement of encouraging responsible pet ownership and compassion.

Dogs, as long-standing companions, offer us loyalty and joy, and today is a reminder of our duty to return the favour.

10 ways to celebrate your dog 

1. 1. Extra treats: Give your dog their favourite snacks.
   2. Quality time: Dedicate a full day to playing and relaxing together.
   3. Extended walk or run: Enjoy an adventure with a long walk or run in nature or through the neighbourhood. run in nature or through the neighbourhood. 
   4. Pet massage: Provide a soothing massage to relax your dog.
   5. DIY dog spa: Indulge your dog with a nice bath and grooming.
   6. Interactive games: Engage with toy puzzles or games like hide and seek.
   7. New tricks: Teach a fun new command or game.
   8. Photoshoot: Capture moments with your furry companion.
   9. Custom accessories: Get a personalised collar or bandana.
   10. Dog-friendly cake: Bake a special, safe cake for a memorable treat.

→ Learn how to throw your pooch an amazing dog party to celebrate the amazing pets they are!

Advocate for dog welfare: 10 ideas to help all canines

1. 1. Volunteer: Offer your time at a local shelter to care for dogs.
   2. Donate supplies: Provide toys, food, or blankets to support shelters.
   3. Share adoption stories: Inspire by sharing tales of successful adoptions.
   4. Promote adoption: Use social media to highlight dogs in need of homes.
   5. Organise a dog parade: Create events that celebrate and bring attention to adoptable dogs.
   6. Foster a dog: Temporarily care for a dog awaiting a permanent home.
   7. Therapy dog awareness: Educate others about therapy dog programs.
   8. Community involvement: Participate in dog-friendly local events.
   9. Host a donation drive: Gather supplies and funds for local shelters.
   10. Educate on pet care: Share resources on responsible pet ownership.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to show our dogs just how much we love them. Just as important, are the many ways to support and advocate for dogs and their welfare. 

And let’s be honest, while it’s great to have special awareness days for animals, most of us don’t need any excuse to celebrate our pets.

Let us know other ideas for celebrating dogs; especially activities that you and your companion enjoy!