A dog and its owner celebrate National Dog Day with Get Joy dog food and dog treats.

A Guide to Celebrating National Dog Day With Your Pup

National Dog Day is coming up, and though you want to celebrate your pooch, you’re unsure what to do. Luckily, we’ve got you covered! Discover fun tips to celebrate National Dog Day with your loyal pooch this year. Let’s dive in.

When is National Dog Day? 

First and foremost, when is national dog day? National Dog Day is celebrated on August 26 each year. This annual celebration honors all dog breeds and promotes awareness of rescue dogs. 

It was founded by Colleen Paige in 2004, who is an Animal Welfare Advocate and Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert. Overall, the mission of this celebration is to help people recognize how many dogs need to be rescued and to promote adoption.

Tips for Making Dog Day Extra Special 

Here are ten tips to have a wonderful Dog Day:

  1. Honor your dog. Take the day to celebrate your dog by showing a little extra love. Go for a long walk in the neighborhood, play their favorite games, or surprise them with a new toy.  
  2. Teach a trick. Teach your pup a new trick! This is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Alternatively, you can sign your dog up for a training class. 
  3. Hit the trails. Spend time in nature on this special day. Find hikes that are pet-friendly to spend quality time together. Going on a hike is also a way for your dog to wear off extra energy. 
  4. Document the day. Take photos of your canine and share them on your social media. Hashtagging National Dog Day is a great way to raise awareness for rescue dogs, too.
  5. Organize a playdate. Organize a pup “pawty” for your pooch with other dog owners. A playdate is an opportunity for the dogs to socialize. Bring nutritious treats for the dogs and have fun!
  6. Dog Spa Day. Treat your dog to a spa day and pamper them with extra care. Dogs need self-care just like we do! Give them a beauty treatment with a professional grooming session. 
  7. Plan water activities. Take your pup for a swim for a memorable day. Some ideas for water activities are going to the beach, kayaking, or paddleboarding. 
  8. Volunteer your time. Ask your local shelter how you can get involved and volunteer. Animal shelters can always use an extra set of hands, so your help will go a long way. 
  9. Donate to shelters. Consider donating money or resources, like toys, treats, and supplies, to your local animal shelter or rescue. Check to see if there are any fundraisers for National Dog Day that you can donate to. 
  10. Add to your family. Don’t have a canine companion? Consider adopting a dog and adding more love to your family. If it isn’t a good time for you, fostering is another option to support a dog in need. 

Happy National Dog Day

All in all, National Dog Day is all about celebrating our canines and creating memories that will last a lifetime. This celebration is also an opportunity to recognize the countless canines waiting for their forever homes. Whatever you choose to do, remember that you are making a difference!

A Healthier Life with Get Joy 

Get Joy was founded with the intention of one pet owner striving to help his dog live a longer life. This was successfully achieved through the nutritional wellness approach, which you can now access for your dog. From one dog owner to another, you can confidently rely on our healthy meal plans to give your dog good health. 

All meal plans are packed with nutritious and yummy food. Take a look at our sample meal plans here.