10 Super Fun Ways To Celebrate Your Dog On National Dog Day!
National Dog Day is celebrated annually on August 26th and was founded in 2004 by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate, Colleen Paige.
This day serves to help spur the public to acknowledge the immense number of dogs that need to be rescued each year, the family dogs that bring us smiles and comfort each day, and the dogs that put their own lives on the line to save ours.
As Josh Billings once said, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”
They are truly selfless creatures, and for that they deserve to be celebrated.
So, with that being said, here are 10 ways to celebrate your dog today for National Dog Day:
1. Bring your dog to the dog park
Social dogs love meeting new dog friends, and you might meet new friends as well! You may want to bring a Frisbee or ball to get your dog involved in this fun form of exercise.
2. Treat them to a spa day in the comfort of your own home
After a long, dirty day of chasing squirrels, nothing will soothe your pooch more than a warm, relaxing bath. Dogs, too, can become stressed and fatigued, so a nice spa treatment would go a long way to keeping them happy and healthy!
3. Have a portrait painted of your dog
Then hang it up in your home to show off your pretty pooch! What better way to decorate your house than with pictures of your best friend? ArtfulDog is one of many sites that will turn your dog’s photos into beautiful painted portraits.
4. Bake them homemade dog treats
There are many benefits to making your own dog treats. Many treat brands have unhealthy additives and preservatives. By making your own, you can guarantee natural and high quality ingredients. I assure you that your dog would LOVE bone-shaped homemade peanut butter and banana treats. The parsley in them will even act as a breath freshener for your pup! You can get the treat maker and the entire recipe book here!
5. Buy your dog a new toy.. or 2.. or 10
Because you can never have enough toys! It’s as simple as that. Let your dog look at the screen and pick out their own; or you can choose our recommendation!
6. Head over to a local shelter and adopt another furry companion to be your dog’s new brother or sister
Not only are you giving your dog new company, but you’d also be providing a great life to a dog in need of a furever home. Visit Adopt a Pet to learn more.
7. Take a day trip together
“Do you wanna take a ride in the car?” is a sentence that has most dogs giving the infamous head tilt. Your pup would love getting a breath of fresh air out the window as you cruise down the long and winding roads to whatever destination you choose. Safety is NEVER an option though!
8. Have a photo-shoot with your dog
Then make them their own Instagram account and post the photos for all of the other dog-lovers to see. Like kids, dogs may not sit still long enough for pictures, but sometimes a candid makes for the best photo!
9. Take your pup for a swim
Whether it’s at the beach or in a pool in your backyard, your dog will love a nice, refreshing dip! Swimming is good on hot summer days to help keep your dog stay cool. It is also recommended by many vets for older dogs that have bone and joint problems. Try this inflatable pool from Coupaw.com!
10. Treat your dog to some of your leftovers
Even if you don’t normally give your dog people food, it is okay to once in a while as long as they aren’t foods that are hazardous to dogs. The ASPCA has written a list of foods that you should absolutely NOT give to your dog.
Your dog loves spending quality time with you… so no matter how you choose to spend your National Dog Day, make sure it’s with your furry best friend!
