How to Celebrate National Dog Week: Fun Activities, Treats, and Ways to Give Back (2025 Update)

Every September, dog lovers across the country celebrate National Dog Week—a tradition started in 1928 by World War I veteran Captain William Lewis Judy to honor the loyalty and service of man’s best friend. Today, it’s more than just a celebration of our own pets—it’s also a reminder to support the broader dog community, from rescues and shelters to strays in need.

National Dog Week is also part of the larger dog care tips and routines for every season that pet parents should embrace. Alongside other national dog holidays like National Therapy Dog Day 2025, National Pet Parents Day 2025, and National Walk Your Dog Day 2025, it reminds us that every day can be a chance to bond with our dogs.

Spread Some Pawsitivity

Celebrating dogs means caring for all of them, not just our own. Volunteering at your local shelter or donating essentials (like food, blankets, or toys) is one of the most impactful ways to celebrate. Many rescues also accept monetary contributions to cover medical expenses.

Why do we celebrate Dog Day?
It’s a chance to show appreciation for the joy dogs bring while raising awareness about adoption, rescue, and responsible ownership.

💡 Tip: Call your local shelter ahead of time to ask what they need most. Some accept digital donations or Amazon wishlist items for convenience. This is also highlighted on many dog days calendar 2025 and veterinary social media calendar 2025 resources.

The @forgottendogsrescue is one such shelter that welcomes volunteers to help dogs. 

Plan a Doggo’s Day Out

Give your pup an adventure! Some fun ideas include:

• Visiting a local dog-friendly park for a play session.

• Taking a day trip for outdoor spring activities to enjoy with your dog.

• Trying a “doga” (dog yoga) class for something new.

• Exploring local monuments or dog-friendly cafes.

What are some fun activities to do on National Dog Day?
Popular options include park trips, hikes, beach days, and even themed photoshoots with your pup.

If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can still keep your pup active with fun indoor activities for dogs on rainy days.

Cozy Up with a Cuddle Session

Sometimes the best celebrations are simple. Create a cozy space with blankets, pillows, and your pup’s favorite plush toys, then spend time together unwinding.

How do I give my dog a fun day?
Even quiet moments like cuddling or massage can be enriching, especially when paired with new toys or calming music.

Not only do dogs love physical affection, but research shows that petting and cuddling dogs reduces stress in humans, too—a win-win!

Treat Them Like Royalty

Food is love—and for dogs, that means treats! You can:

• Try homemade dog treat recipes your pup will love.

• Shop for vet-approved gourmet dog treats.

• Surprise them with a dog treat gift box for a week-long celebration.

Dogs love treats, and @popeyethefoodie is proof of that! Surprise your fur babies with new dishes that not only taste good but are visually pleasing too.

We have some amazing treat recipes for you to check out. If you’re not one for whipping up dishes in the kitchen, there are plenty of dog-friendly treats that you could check out online.

What is a fun treat for dogs?
Options include frozen peanut butter pops, apple slices, or gourmet treats like Bonne et Filou macarons.

At Bonne et Filou, we craft dog-safe French macarons and curated gift boxes using natural ingredients, so your pup can enjoy luxury treats made just for them.

Play Dates For The Win — Host a Pup Paw-ty

The more, the merrier! If you don’t believe us, check out this video from @tuckerbudzyn. Make the most of your celebrations by inviting other doggos and having a wonderful pawrty.

Invite other pet parents and their dogs for a playdate or mini dog party. Ideas include:

• Dog-friendly games like fetch relays or tug-of-war.

• Themed decorations and costumes.

• A dog photo booth with fun accessories.

• Gift bags with toys or small treats for each pup.

What kind of games can I play with my dog?
Simple fetch, hide-and-seek, and puzzle toys are always popular. Group games make it even better!

Hosting a pawrty isn’t just for National Dog Week—it’s also a fun idea for birthdays. Explore ways to celebrate your dog’s special day with creative ideas that go beyond cake and candles.

A photo-op for the doggos will take your pawrty up a notch and keep everyone entertained. Here’s a list of accessories you could keep for the perfect shot.

There are countless ways you can go about enjoying National Dog Week. However, don’t get so caught up in the fun and games that you forget to do your bit for the fluffy community.

Volunteering and donating might be a small thing for you but can be a huge help to the shelters.

Enjoy the week to the fullest by taking your doggos out and pampering them with gifts and yummies.

If you’re looking for safe and delectable treats, Bonne et Filou’s macarons are made with 100% natural ingredients and have even been endorsed by vets!

Putting It All Together

National Dog Week is about celebrating the joy dogs bring to our lives while remembering to give back to the wider dog community. Whether you volunteer, adventure outdoors, or spoil your pup with luxury treats, you’ll be making memories that last long after the week is over.

This celebration also aligns with other animal events like Vet Appreciation Day 2025 and International Dog Day 2025, all of which are highlighted on annual pet calendars.

What is the theme of International Dog Day 2025?
This year’s theme focuses on adoption awareness and promoting responsible pet ownership.

And while treats are perfect for celebrations, they also play an important role in training. Learn how positive reinforcement training with treats can improve your dog’s behavior while keeping them happy.

Want to make this week extra special? Explore Bonne et Filou’s dog macarons and curated gift boxes—because every pup deserves to be treated like royalty.