International Dog Day — August 26
International Dog Day (also called National Dog Day in the US) is celebrated on August 26. Founded in 2004 by animal advocate Colleen Paige, it honours dogs of all breeds and pushes for adoption of homeless dogs from shelters and rescue groups.
Why this date
August 26 is the day Paige's family adopted her first dog from a shelter when she was 10. The holiday quickly grew beyond the US and is now observed worldwide — even by people who don't own a dog.
How to celebrate
- Long walk or hike with your dog — switch up the route to give them new smells.
- New toy or chew: A bonus on the day. Avoid rawhide for older dogs.
- Donate to a shelter — food, blankets, or volunteer hours.
- Foster: Many shelters run foster drives on this day. Even a few weeks of fostering saves lives.
- Post on social media: #InternationalDogDay and #NationalDogDay trend every year — share a photo, tag the rescue you adopted from.
Everyday tips for a happier dog
- Exercise matters. Most breeds need 30–60 minutes of physical activity a day. Working breeds need more.
- Mental stimulation. Puzzle feeders, sniff walks and training sessions tire a dog more than a long walk alone.
- Dental care. Brush their teeth weekly. Dental disease is the #1 issue in dogs over 3.
- Recall practice. Even a well-trained dog needs regular recall refreshers — practice in a low-distraction area first, with high-value treats.
Fact
Dogs have about 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to 6 million in humans. Their brain area for analysing smells is around 40 times larger than ours.
International Dog Day FAQ
When is International Dog Day?
August 26 every year. The date is fixed.
Who founded it?
Pet expert and animal advocate Colleen Paige, in 2004.
What's the difference between International Dog Day and National Puppy Day?
International Dog Day (Aug 26) celebrates dogs of all ages and pushes for shelter adoption. National Puppy Day (March 23) specifically focuses on puppies and the importance of responsible breeding.
Should I adopt or buy a dog?
Roughly 3.1 million dogs enter US shelters each year. Adopting one — especially an adult dog — gives you a known temperament and saves a life. Reputable breeders are an alternative for specific working breeds.
What's the world's most popular dog breed?
The Labrador Retriever was the most popular dog breed in the US for 31 years until the French Bulldog overtook it in 2022. The Lab still leads in many other countries.
