Dog lovers celebrate National Dog Day every year on August 26. But let’s be honest- if you love dogs, every day is a day to celebrate our furry friends and family members! I love animals, and my family has always had pets.

Why August 26? According to Country Living, National Dog Day was created in 2004 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert. She chose that date because it was the day her family adopted their first shelter dog when she was 10 years old.

If you want to celebrate National Dog Day, here are a few ideas:

  • Volunteer at your local animal shelter
  • Make a donation to an animal welfare organization
  • Take your dog- or a friend’s dog- on a walk
  • Hire a pet photographer to take photos of your dog
  • Buy your furry friend a new toy

Do you have a dog? What supplies do you buy for your pet? Let me know in the comments, and tell me a fun fact about your pup!

Move over, Rover! According to Daily Paws, the most popular names for dogs are:

  • Bella
  • Max
  • Luna
  • Charlie
  • Lucy
  • Cooper
  • Daisy
  • Milo
  • Zoe or Zoey 
  • Rocky

Puppy Parties

Do you celebrate your dog’s birthday with presents, special treats, or even a party? According to research by Rover.com, 56% of dog owners have celebrated their pet’s birthday! Many pet supply stores offer free birthday treats for pups, too. And don’t forget the popular “pup cups” at ice cream stores!

If you’ve never thrown a party for your pet, the American Kennel Club has a great guide that includes tips on who to invite, food and drinks, party activities and even goody bags! National Dog Day is also a great time to throw a party for all your favorite pups.

Taking Care of Dogs

Dogs add a lot of love to our lives, but they also bring a lot of expenses! From trips to the vet for shots and exams, to food, to all the extras like treats and toys, it can add up to a lot of money.

PetPedia’s website has some interesting facts about the cost of owning a dog.

  • Dog owners spend an average of $73 per year on grooming
  • 43% of dog owners buy premium pet food
  • 40% of dog owners bought clothing for their pet in 2020
  • More than 50% of pup parents buy their pet a Christmas or holiday gift– and a quarter of them also celebrate Halloween with a present!

Scan Pet Supply Purchases

Remember to scan purchases you make for your dog, including food, treats, and other supplies! Companies want to know about who’s buying what type of pet food and pet supply products.

Not a panel member and want to join? Learn more and sign up here. Now, go give your dog a big hug from me!

Regards,

Taylor

More From NCP: