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A little reason to celebrate

National Spoil Your Dog Day

Animal · August 10

A day for giving your dog a little extra: a longer walk, a new toy, a favorite treat, or simply more of your time and attention.

National Spoil Your Dog Day falls on Tuesday, August 10, 2027. That is 287 days away.

Most dogs already think they are spoiled, and most owners already suspect they are right. This one asks for a bit more anyway: an extra lap around the park, a squeaky toy that survives the afternoon, a lazy hour on the couch with nowhere to be.

Dogs are social animals, and many of the things they love most cost nothing. A walk on a new route gives a dog a whole library of smells to read. A game of fetch or tug lets them use their bodies the way they were built to. Time with their people, close and unhurried, tends to matter more to a dog than anything in a shopping bag.

Spoiling works best when it suits the dog. A young retriever might want a long run and a muddy stick. An older dog may prefer a soft blanket in a sunny spot and a gentle brushing. Treats are part of it for plenty of households, and a small portion of a dog-safe food goes a long way. Some foods people eat, such as chocolate, grapes and onions, are harmful to dogs, so the special snack should be one made for them.

Plenty of people mark the day with photos, a homemade toy, or a slow walk where the dog sets the pace and chooses every stop. Others think of dogs still waiting for homes and drop off blankets or towels at a local shelter.

The simplest version is letting your dog lead for an hour and seeing where the nose goes.

Ways to celebrate

• Take a longer walk on a new route and let your dog sniff freely.
• Make a simple toy from an old knotted T-shirt.
• Give a gentle brushing or a belly rub session.
• Donate old towels or blankets to a local animal shelter.
• Play your dog's favorite game until they decide it is over.

Dates

All national days on August 10

Also on August 10

• National S'mores Day
• National Lazy Day
• World Lion Day

Categories: Animal days