Grab your dog and the nearest toy because October 18 is National Fetch Day. It’s a chance to get out in the yard, get some exercise, and build some memories. Fetch may be one of the oldest bonding activities between dogs and their humans and National Fetch Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and strengthen the bond.
History of National Fetch Day
Fetch may be a game played between a dog and his human, but it has its roots tens of thousands of years ago and the game being played was survival. Recent science indicates that the first dogs were domesticated by humans sometime between 18,000 and 32,000 years ago. Their wolf ancestors slowly progressed from hunting competitors into hunting partners leading to their general domestication as pets over the millennia.
This is where fetch comes in. As a hunting partner, dogs played several different roles, one of which being to retrieve food—think the bloodhound from Duck Hunt but without the snarky laughter. The breeds that were best at this critical component were the ones that were more likely to stick around becoming the fetch lovers we love today. Eventually, the need to fetch food was replaced by far less survivalistic endeavors (ya know, like snuggling and taking up the whole bed). And so the process of fetch became the game of fetch, only this time with a greater bonding component.
So why do dogs play fetch? Turns out, they are chemically and psychologically disposed to the game. Playing fetch feels good to them. The exercise creates a sort of “runner’s high” that triggers the reward regions in their brains. That tickling of the reward regions becomes self-reinforcing. Dogs who feel good playing fetch play fetch more.
There is also the bonding component. Dogs are notoriously loyal animals and the bond created between a dog and his human playing fetch has a significant impact on that relationship. It provides much-needed exercise for the dog (and who are we kidding, the human too), and reinforces the relationship chemically and psychologically. Dogs love fetch. They play fetch with their humans. Dogs love their humans. What lovely math, eh?
National Fetch Day timeline
A ball launcher that makes throwing easier and pick up slobber-free is created.
National Fetch Day is established to celebrate 20 years of the iconic launcher and the celebrations kick off in Arlington, Texas.
National Fetch Day goes from coast to coast by coordinating celebrations with bars and restaurants around the country.
Chuckit and Petmate sponsor National Fetch Day on National Today. Want to be a sponsor: learn how.
National Fetch Day FAQs
How did National Fetch Day start?
National Fetch Day was created to celebrate the bond between dogs and their owners, and promotes active play and exercise through the beloved game of fetch.
What’s the best way to play fetch?
The best way to play fetch is your way. Maybe it means tossing the ball down the hallway of your apartment or launching it through the air in your backyard. Using the timeless game to bond with your pup is the best way to play.
Where do I find out more about National Fetch Day?
There are a ton of resources available online including everything you need to know to take part in National Fetch Day.
National Fetch Day Activities
Play fetch
Play fetch with your dog and strengthen your bond while providing them with much-needed exercise. It's the perfect way to celebrate.
Host a fetch contest
Host a friendly fetch competition at a local park and invite your friends, family, and neighbors. You can set up different categories based on the dog's sizes and abilities, and offer fun prizes for the fastest fetchers.
Share your fetch memories on social media
Capture the joy of your pup in action and inspire others to join by sharing photos and videos of your dog playing fetch. Don't forget to use the hashtag #NationalFetchDay.
5 Fun Facts To Share At The Dog Park
Found!
Rescuers in the Bahamas discovered a dog who survived 20 days in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. He spent three weeks trapped under an air conditioner in the town of Marsh Harbour, on the Abaco Islands. His new name? Miracle.
Red, white and barking!
Americans loves dogs — and we own more than 75 million of them! France ranks #2 for most dog owners.
Dogs actually get jealous
Research shows your dog can feel jealous when they see you interacting with another animal. Spend some quality time with them this National Fetch Day!
Doggie inheritance?
The number of dogs named as the primary beneficiary in their owners’ wills hovers around one million!
The saluki is the world’s oldest dog
This breed turned up in Egyptian tombs from as early as 2100 BC. They were originally trained to help owners catch wild game.
Why We Love National Fetch Day
Fetch is its own reward
Dogs love to fetch things. On grass, in water, down the hallway, most can’t get enough of the game. Playing it becomes its own reward and lowers the need for positive reinforcement through other means like treats.
It’s a heck of a workout
Have you ever seen a dog book it after a ball thrown in the park? Every muscle in their bodies are working overtime to reach that prize and their cardio-vascular system is in full gear. This is great for keeping your dog healthy and happy.
It satisfies their instinct to chase
Remember, dogs are hunters and they have instincts that they need to satisfy. One of those is to chase. Clearly, they aren’t chasing a bowl of kibble so fetch helps satisfy those cravings to seek.
National Fetch Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | October 16 | Saturday |
| 2022 | October 15 | Saturday |
| 2023 | October 21 | Saturday |
| 2024 | October 19 | Saturday |
| 2025 | October 18 | Saturday |
