MAIN Home Life Holidays & Observances National Dog Day 2023

On August 26th, it's all about the dogs.on National Dog Day.

Happy National Dog Day 2023

Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 26, 2023 as America goes to the dogs on National Dog Day!

National Dog Day was created by the National Dog Day Foundation in a mission to promote adoption of rescue dogs and to support local pet shelters coast to coast. Their motto? "Saving 10,000 Dogs - One Day at a Time".

Since 2004, the foundation has saved the lives of more than 100,000 of the furry critters, and today the celebration of National Dog Day has traveled thousands of miles with similar celebrations on the same day occurring in the UK, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, Spain and Canada.

In addition to giving love and companionship, dogs are "man's best friend" in countless other ways -- protecting our homes, leading the blind, acting heroically in times of war, or aiding in search and rescue missions.

also see -> National Puppy Day | Take Your Dog to Work Day

2023 National Dog Day Freebies & Deals

Every year, businesses love to cater to canine family members to celebrate the big day.

This year, watch for the big national chains like Petco, PetSmart and Petland to join the fun with special deals on selected merchandise.

Don't forget national restaurant chains offering offering free doggie treats and giveaways for National Dog Day coast to coast, along with ice cream shops with pup-friendly scoops in honor of the day.

In your local area, also be sure to check out participating shelters, pet supply stores -- and even pet-friendly hotels -- or go online to discover more about contests and special offers that celebrate your favorite fur-baby during National Dog Day.

How else to celebrate National Dog Day

That's easy!

Spoil your dog with extra treats, or get creative with dog-friendly recipes for a nutritious home-cooked meal. Host a National Dog Day event to raise money for your local animal shelter, or offer your services as a volunteer.

Since August is summer vacation time, make plans to take your dog along on a dog friendly vacation or for a little R&R in a swank dog friendly hotel.

Have a National Dog Day party and invite all your friends and their dogs! Let kids join in on the fun by downloading cute dog coloring pages for a great party activity.

When the party is over, don't forget to check in on elderly neighbors or shut-ins and offer to walk, groom, or give special treats to their companion dogs.

Fun facts for National Dog Day

• Stressed? Petting a dog is scientifically proven to lower blood pressure. Simply walking your dog has lots of health (and social) benefits, as well.

• According research, the best dog for attracting the opposite sex is the Golden retriever. The same study suggests that if you'd rather be left alone, walk a pit bull!

• Dog noseprints are as distinctive as human fingerprints. No two are exactly alike and often can be used to identify them.

• The most popular dog breed in Canada, U.S., and Great Britain is the Labrador retriever.

• Along with National Dog Day, there's also Take Your Dog to Work Day observed every year in the United States in June.

• The most popular male dog names are Max and Buddy. The most popular female dog names are Bella and Molly.

• Those born under the sign of the dog in Chinese astrology are said to be loyal and true.

• French poodles aren't French! Germany is their original home, and the name comes from the German pudelhund or “splashing dog”.

More about celebrating National Dog Day around the Web:

2023 National Dog Day - Yes, there's an official site, featuring fun facts and information with at least 50 ways to celebrate dogs on National Dog Day.

ESL Holiday Lessons - National Dog Day - Classroom resources to celebrate the day, including spelling, reading comprehension, and word scrambles.