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National Dog Day

An appreciation day on August 26 celebrating dogs of all breeds, promoting adoption from shelters, and honoring the bond between humans and their canine companions.

Wednesday

August 2026

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 26

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYDogs

ORIGIN

Individual Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

Colleen Paige

FIRST OBSERVED

2004

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert, founded National Dog Day in 2004 to celebrate all dogs, raise awareness about dogs needing rescue from shelters, and honor family and working dogs. August 26 was chosen as the date her family adopted their first dog.

View Official Announcementvia nationaldogday.com

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Dog Day on August 26 with all the puppy love you can muster! This day was created to recognize the unconditional love and devotion that dogs give us, no matter what. It's been celebrated since 2004 as a way to bring attention to dog rescue organizations, adoption centers, and animal shelters in order to find homes for homeless pups. Besides being our best friends, there are countless other reasons why we should appreciate our furry companions!

DEALS & OFFERS

Past offers

No active deals yet — here’s who’s celebrated before.

Nothing yet for 2026

Brands typically announce offers a week before the date. Check back closer to the day.

5 brands have run a deal

Chill-N

Camp Bow Wow®

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

Petco

Raising Cane's

See past offers

TIMELINE

National Dog Day Timeline

National Dog Day Inception

Animal advocate Colleen Paige inaugurated National Dog Day to raise awareness about dog adoption and the role of dogs in our lives.

Recognition By States

Many U.S. states officially recognized the holiday following the legislation introduced in New York State Assembly.

Worldwide Embrace

National Dog Day started to be recognized in various countries around the world, further promoting its message globally.

National Dog Day Foundation

The National Dog Day Foundation was established, with its mission to rescue 10,000 dogs each year.

Rise in Pet Adoptions

Animal shelters reported a surge in pet adoptions around the time of the holiday, reflecting its success in raising awareness.

Social Media Impact

Social media platforms showed a high engagement rate, demonstrating the widespread acceptance and love for dogs.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Dog Day

Adopt a Dog

One of the best ways to celebrate National Dog Day is to adopt a pup from your local animal shelter! Not only will you have a new furry friend in your life, but you’ll be saving a life too!

TAKE

Take Your Dog Out for an Adventure

Take your pup out for a fun day at the beach, dog park, or even just a nice long walk around the neighborhood. It will be something they’ll never forget and it will show them how much you love them.

THROW

Throw Your Dog a Party

Get all your friends together and throw your pooch their own special celebration! Invite other dogs over, give out treats, and set up games like “musical chairs” or “hide and seek” to keep everyone entertained.

DONATE

Donate to Animal Charities

Donating to animal charities is another great way to help out on National Dog Day. There are many organizations that help care for animals in need so consider donating some money or supplies such as food or toys.

MAKE

Make Homemade Treats for Your Dog

Making homemade treats is an easy way to show your pup some extra love on this special day. Look up some recipes online, get the ingredients, then bake away! Your pup will be sure to appreciate the effort.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Dog Day

Dogs bring us comfort and support

Pets act as our emotional support system - especially in times of trouble. They provide us with unconditional love and understanding when we need it most. They offer a sense of comfort and security that helps get us through difficult times.

Dogs make great companions

Few things can bring as much joy and happiness to your life as having a loyal pup by your side. Dogs provide unconditional love, joy, and companionship that no other creature on earth can match. Their cheerful dispositions help reduce stress and make everything brighter!

Dogs are smart & trainable

While dogs have long been considered man's best friend, they also possess an impressive intelligence. With proper training, you can teach your dog how to do almost anything. From basic commands to intricate tricks, the possibilities are endless!

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SUN

Jun 2026