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Fun Holiday – Dog Appreciation Day

August 26 is Dog Day or Dog Appreciation Day, a day to appreciate your best friend on four legs.

26Aug
Dog Appreciation Day
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
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Happy young boy lovingly hugging his pet dog.
©iStockphoto.com/MelleVaroy

Founded in 2004 by pet and family lifestyle expert and animal behaviorist Colleen Paige, the day honors dogs for all that they do to enrich our lives and communities. The holiday also aims to raise awareness about dog adoption and the importance of providing rescue dogs with a safe and loving environment.

Man's Best Friend

Often known as man's best friend, dogs were the first animals to be domesticated by humans and they were often used for guarding property, herding stock, and for hunting game. Today, dogs are used as companions and are considered to be a member of the family in many parts of the world.

The unofficial holiday is also sometimes called World Dog Day, National Dog Appreciation Day, or International Dog Day.

How to Celebrate?

  • Adopt a dog and give it a loving home.
  • If you have a dog, treat them with their favorite treats.
  • If you are unable to have a dog in your family, celebrate the day by donating your time and money to the local animal and dog shelter.

Did You Know…

…that Dalmatians are born without any spots? Their characteristic spots appear as they grow older.

Dog Appreciation Day Observances

YearWeekdayDateName
2025TueAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2026WedAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2027ThuAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2028SatAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2029SunAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2030MonAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2031TueAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2032ThuAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2033FriAug 26Dog Appreciation Day
2034SatAug 26Dog Appreciation Day