| International Dog Day | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | International |
| Date | 26 August |
| Next time | 26 August 2026 |
| Frequency | Annual |
International Dog Day or National Dog Day is an annual observance held on August 26 to celebrate dogs of all breeds and backgrounds, promote dog adoption, and raise awareness about the welfare of dogs around the world. It also recognizes working dogs and the roles they play in human society, including service, police, military, and rescue dogs. [1]
International Dog Day was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, an American animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert. The date, August 26, was chosen to mark the day her family adopted their first dog from a local animal shelter when she was 10 years old.
Initially celebrated in the United States, the observance has since gained global attention, with people and organizations in various countries participating in dog-focused events and awareness campaigns. [2] [3]
The goals of International Dog Day include:
International Dog Day is marked by various activities around the world, including:
The observance has contributed to increasing public awareness of shelter dogs and the importance of pet adoption. Organizations, celebrities, and animal rights groups often use the day to spotlight dogs in need and encourage donations to dog-related causes. Retailers and pet brands frequently run promotions and events to celebrate the occasion.
