National Make a Dog’s Day

Categories:: Animal
Tags:: Dog Friendship Pet
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every October 22
Holiday emoji:: 🐶

National Make a Dog’s Day celebrates our beloved canine companions every October 22. This special day reminds us to go above and beyond to show our dogs how much they mean to us. Spoil them with extra cuddles, their favorite treats, and a new toy, or visit a local shelter to make a new friend.

Deals
Platforms
Social
Brands
Hero
History
Timeline
Businesses
FAQs
Importance
Celebrate

Expected National Make a Dog’s Day Deals

While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows pet retailers and brands often roll out special deals for National Make a Dog’s Day. Expect discounts on treats, toys, and grooming services from major players like Petco, PetSmart, and online retailers such as Chewy. Local pet boutiques might offer special in-store events or adoption drives. Brands like Blue Buffalo and Purina may feature limited-time offers on premium dog food. Consider supporting local shelters, as many partner with brands for donation-matching programs. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as October 22 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Make a Dog’s Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #MakeADogsDay. Share heartwarming photos and videos of your dog enjoying their special day, from park adventures to cozy naps.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #MakeADogsDay. Film creative videos showcasing how you spoil your pup, like a ‘day in the life’ or a ‘favorite treats’ compilation.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #MakeADogsDay. Create a community post asking followers to share how they made their dog’s day.

National Make a Dog’s Day Hero

Henry Bergh

Henry Bergh (1813–1888) was an American diplomat and philanthropist who founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in 1866. His tireless advocacy for animal rights and efforts to establish legal protections for animals laid the groundwork for modern animal welfare movements, profoundly impacting countless dogs' lives.

History of National Make a Dog’s Day

A best friend, a loyal companion, a ferocious protector, and an eternal guardian; dogs’ work is something that we cannot replicate. Dogs have been with us for a long time. They were once wolves who roamed the forests and savannahs when we were cave-dwelling hunters. Wolves used to scavenge on the remains of ancient human hunts. They slowly started to follow us for food.

But some wolves realize they have much to gain from humans if they can subdue their wild side and be a bit more docile. That is the beginning of the evolution of dogs. As the wolves lost their wild side, they started to adapt to humans. Though they are smaller and domestic, dogs still pack a punch similar to wolves. They ensured that we were safe and that other predators were not stealing our food. Over time, we breed more varieties of dogs to suit our needs. Now we have hunters, guardians, lap dogs, shepherds, etc.

Dogs are now an integral part of our lives for most of us. They are among the most popular, misused, and underappreciated pets worldwide. A dog is intelligent, can follow instructions, and will stay loyal until the end. National Make a Dog’s Day is about spending time with our dogs and encouraging people to provide better conditions for all dogs. We must make sure that every dog has a forever home.

National Make a Dog’s Day timeline

14,000 Years Ago

First Domestic Dogs

The first domestication of dogs happened between 14,000 and 29,000 years ago.

6000 B.C.

Cave Paintings Of Basenji

The first archeological records of prehistoric cave paintings with Basenji breed dogs.

329 B.C.

The First Dog Breed

The Saluki, the world’s oldest known dog breed, begin to appear in Egypt.

2019

First Ever National Make A Dog’s Day

Samburu and A.S.P.C.A. start the first National Make a Dog’s Day on October 22.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Make a Dog’s Day

Local pet stores can host ‘treat tasting’ events or offer free nail trims for a day. Groomers might provide special ‘spa day’ packages. Restaurants with pet-friendly patios can feature a ‘pup menu’ with dog-safe snacks. Veterinary clinics could offer discounted wellness checks or microchipping services. All businesses can encourage donations to local animal shelters or host adoption awareness drives, using #MakeADogsDay to amplify their efforts.

National Make a Dog’s Day FAQs

When is National Make a Dog’s Day?

National Make a Dog’s Day 2026 falls on Thursday, October 22. It’s a perfect mid-week reminder to give your furry friend some extra love and attention.

How many households own a dog in the U.S.?

According to recent surveys, approximately 65-70 million households in the United States own at least one dog. This makes dogs the most popular pet in the country, highlighting their significant role in American families.

What are some popular ways to make a dog's day?

Making a dog’s day in 2026 can involve simple joys like an extra-long walk, a new squeaky toy, or a special dog-friendly treat. Many owners also enjoy taking their pups to a dog park or for a swim if weather permits.

What is the difference between a service dog and an emotional support animal?

In 2026, a service dog is legally defined as an animal specifically trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability, such as guiding the blind or alerting to seizures. An emotional support animal (ESA), while providing comfort, does not require specific task training and is not considered a service animal under ADA law.

National Make a Dog’s Day Activities

Go for a walk with your dog
Dogs love to walk. They love it even better to walk with their favorite human. Take your dog for a long walk. Make sure you take him to a place where he can play.
Give a treat
Who wouldn’t love to get a treat? Dogs certainly love and appreciate a tasty treat now and then. Don’t miss this opportunity to treat your furry friend.
Donate to a local shelter
The condition of dogs inside shelters has to improve, and we can help with that. Arrange a fundraiser with your friends. Provide the funds to the nearest animal rescue shelter in your locality.

5 Facts About Dogs That You Should Know

Sniff while breathing
Dogs can sniff at the same time as they are breathing.
One great swimmer
Newfoundlands are great swimmers, and they are used for water rescues.
Speed with stamina
Greyhounds can run at 35 mph for more than seven miles.
Noise detectors
Dogs can hear much softer sounds than we humans can and can pick up sounds from longer distances.
Toddler smart
The intelligence of a dog is similar to that of a two-year-old human.

Why We Love National Make a Dog’s Day

Dogs are our best friends
Dogs are man’s best friends. They prove every day that they are worth the moniker. We love to spend the day making them happy as much as they make us happy.
They deserve a day
The emotional health of a dog depends on how well we treat him. We love that we have a day to make sure our canine friend is happy as ever.
A lifelong companion
A dog will be loyal until its final breath. No other living being can match up to the love and loyalty of a dog. We love to use this day to appreciate the dogs in our life.