Your pup will delight in any extra attention you can offer on his big day. Whether you have all day to spend with your dog or just a few hours after work, you can make your dog’s birthday special.
Here are seven fun ways to celebrate your dog’s birthday.
1. Commemorate the Occasion with a Cake
Here’s an easy one. All dogs love treats. From training rewards to table scraps, a tasty morsel from their favorite human is a premium honor for any dog. Sing “Happy Birthday” and let your dog go to town on a delicious doggy dessert.
Remember that a traditional store-bought birthday cake containing chocolate and sugar could make your dog sick, so bypass the bakery and get creative with a dog-friendly confection.
Luckily, puppy cakes are easy enough to whip up using more wholesome dog-friendly ingredients that most pets can safely enjoy. Give your dog a generous slice topped with their favorite treat. And try a bit for yourself! Maybe you’ll find a favorite recipe to continue the tradition year after year.
Try your local pet supply store for pre-made birthday treats and even box mix cake and ice cream bundles explicitly designed to help you celebrate your dog’s latest trip around the sun.
2. Dress for the Occasion
If you give your dog a birthday cake, go all-in and dress up your pooch with a festive hat and accessories to make the moment more memorable. Alternatively, look for a new clothing item for your dog to wear any day of the year. Gift him with a comfy hoodie or purchase other doggy apparel to make her stand out on your neighborhood walks.
If your dog does not enjoy wearing clothes, that’s ok. Please don’t push it. Try a simple bandana instead. Your dog can rock this fun accessory without interfering with all the birthday festivities.
3. Buy Your Dog Some New Toys
Just like people, dogs love presents. There is nothing like the excitement of a new ball to fetch or an indestructible toy to destroy immediately.
Wrap your dog’s gift just like you would for any family member and make a big deal when you’re opening it. He’ll sense the excitement in your voice and be thrilled to see that he has something new to play with.
4. Throw Your Pooch a Party
Your dog’s birthday is a great excuse to have a gathering with some of her favorite friends, dogs, and people alike. Throw a backyard cookout in her honor, or head to the local dog park to let her get her energy out with new doggy buddies.
Surround yourselves with other like-minded dog owners who will love to celebrate your dog’s big day. Whether it’s a get-together with just your family, or a park full of people, your dog will appreciate the accolades.
5. Go for a Birthday Walk
All dogs love getting out of the house for a walk. Even a simple stroll around the neighborhood is a thrill for your birthday buddy. The familiar sights and smells provide that sensory fix that keeps him informed of all the local happenings. If you usually take your dog for a daily walk, don’t skip it on his birthday. Walking your dog is good for both of you. What better way to recognize your bond than by strengthening it with a beneficial birthday walk?
6. Go for a Car Ride!
If you haven’t caught on, the best way to celebrate your dog’s birthday is to do the things your dog loves. Some dogs might get nervous or car sick when they go for a ride. If that’s your dog, skip this one. If not, let’s go!
Let your dog ride shotgun and roll down the window so he can feel the wind whip through his fur as you cruise down the road. Your destination can be one of his favorite dog parks, or maybe go out for a joy ride and then back home for a snuggle on the couch. Time with you is the best gift you can give.
7. Snap Plenty of Pics
Dog years go by much faster than human years. Our feisty puppies seem to become seniors in the blink of an eye. About parenting, author Gretchen Rubin said, “The days are long, but the years are short.” Any dog owner can relate to this sentiment as well.
Take lots of pictures of your dog on his birthday, and frankly, any chance you get. You will cherish these memories and be grateful for the photographic evidence of the unique bond you share with your furry family member.
Happy birthday to your four-legged friend!
