How to celebrate National Dog Day | Dogs Trust

How to celebrate National Dog Day

Here's some tips and tricks on how to celebrate National Dog Day this year.

Brian a tan staffie in a birdseye view shot looking at the camera in a field of yellow flowers.
23rd August 2023

From sofa snuggles to teatime tail-chases, our four-legged furballs always know exactly how to make us think ‘dog only knows what I’d do without you’. What better excuse than National Dog Day to show your precious pooch some love in return. 

What is National Dog Day? 

National Dog Day, also known as International Dog Day, is a time to come together and celebrate all things DOG. Whether you’re a proud pawrent or furry fanatic, National Dog Day reminds us to show appreciation for those cute companions we can’t do without.  

When is National Dog Day 2023? 

National Dog Day 2023 is on Saturday, 26 August. We know what you’re thinking – isn’t every day National Dog Day?? Yes, the answer’s yes (…but not officially).  

10 ways to celebrate National Dog Day 

‘But how do I celebrate National Dog Day?’ We hear you ask. While there’s no right or wrong answer, we’ve come up with 10 ways to raise the woof this National Dog Day. So, fetch your canine companion if you have one, put your feet (and paws) up, and dig into our 10 fun ways to show your adored doggo how important they really are. 

A brindle puppy playing with a slow-feeder toy, whilst a family watches from the sofa in the background.

Bake your pup a treat 

Fancy yourself the Paul Hollywood or Prue Leith of the dog world? We’ve got a whole bunch of mouth-watering recipes to land you in The Great British Bark Off finale. From pancakes and biscuits, to cupcakes and even afternoon tea – we’ve got you covered. Ready, set, BARK! 
 

Share pics or videos of your handsome hound 

Strike a pose with your pooch like you’re in Vanity Fur. Or why not shoot the next Indiana Bones or Pup Fiction with a video starring your Oscar-worthy woofer. It’s sure to be a box-office hit.  
 

Go on your pup’s favourite walk 

Take your woofer for a wander in their favourite spot. Whether that’s a city stroll or woodland walkies, your four-legged friend will adore to explore. Don’t forget to pack some nibbles for a puppy picnic.  
 

Make your doggo a dig box 

Can you dig it? Your pup will love diving paws-first into the challenge of a dig box. This is a great source of enrichment, keeping your best pal’s nose entertained with bits you probably already have around the house. Find out how to make one here

Recipes and enrichment
Life with your dog
Recipes and enrichment
How to make a dig box and other indoor enrichment
Recipes and enrichment
How to make a dig box and other indoor enrichm...
White Bull Terrier dog with his head in a snuggle cardboard box in the living room, whilst a mum and two boys watch from the sofa.

Buy them a new toy 

Your playful pooch’s behind may not wiggle for a new smart phone, but it will for a good squeaky ball or tug toy. Even if your home’s already building a small ark of chewy wildlife, you can’t beat a little retail therapy. Find your little pal some presents over at our shop.  
 

Take a nap together 

Is your pup Sleeping Beauty or a Tyranno-snore-us Rex? Either way, there’s no better feeling than melting away into a deep sofa snooze with your dozy doggo. This will strengthen your bond while recharging their batteries for other fun activities.     
 

Arrange a pet playdate  

That’s what friends are paw. One thing sure to get your dog’s tail wagging is a date frolicking with a fellow furball. Arrange a playdate with your pooch’s best furry friend or take them to your local park to make new ones.  
 

Take a trip to the beach 

We all need a sandy getaway once in a while – and our mucky mutts are no different. Leap into your dog’s good books with a spontaneous beach trip this National Dog Day. Check out our top tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach. first. Surf’s pup! 
 

Sponsor a dog 

Celebrating National Dog Day isn’t just for pooch parents. If you’re a dog lover without your own pup to pamper, why not make a new best bud today. You can sponsor one of our resident rovers for as little as £1 per week, and in return you’ll receive three updates per year from your chosen pal. Sign up today.  
 

Give a furball a forever home 

There are still thousands of dogs awaiting adoption across the UK. If you’re able to, what better way to celebrate National Dog Day than by giving the ulti-mutt gift: a forever home for a faithful four-legged friend. Every dog deserves a home, and every home deserves a doggo to adore. Start your application today. 

 

Now, go and show a canine you care. Happy National Dog Day! 

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