There are a lot of holidays big and small throughout the year. No matter what your interest might be, there is probably a holiday or a national day for it. Here’s what you need to know about National Puppy Day and a few ways to celebrate it too:

What is National Puppy Day?

National Puppy Day began in 2006 and happens every year on March 23rd. It’s all about celebrating the unconditional love, neverending affection, and absolute adorableness that puppies bring to our lives. It’s also meant to be a platform to raise awareness about what puppies need and some of the not-so-joyful challenges they can face.

In addition to celebrating puppies far and wide, National Puppy Day is also about educating people and raising funds for the care orphaned and rescued puppies need. Additionally, it’s about educating people on the dangers and horrors of puppy mills, how to recognize the signs of irresponsible breeding, and how they can help avoid and prevent it.

5 Ways to Celebrate National Puppy Day

Since National Puppy Day is about raising awareness as well as celebrating puppies far and wide, there are plenty of ways to participate. Here are just a few ways to celebrate National Puppy Day:

1. Use Social Media

Since National Puppy Day is about celebration as well as education and awareness, you can use social media to spread a message. There are plenty of hashtags available related to puppies, but #NationalPuppyDay is the official hashtag for this holiday.

You can share happy posts celebrating your own puppy, encourage people to donate to a fundraiser or their local shelter, and more. You can also re-share posts from shelters, vets, and more to help them reach more people.

2. Make a Donation

Shelters are always in need of supplies, money, volunteers, and more. You can donate to a national cause or go smaller and donate to a shelter in your local community. Contact your local shelter to see what they need the most ahead of National Puppy Day and then give them a donation of money, volunteer time, or some of the supplies they need.

You can even start a fundraiser for them on a crowdfunding platform. Or, you can run a pet food, toy, or supply drive to collect specific supplies from your local community that can be donated to the shelter or rescue in honor of National Puppy Day. You can also get a group of friends together to volunteer your time.

3. Go to a Puppy Meet-Up

In many communities, there may be a puppy meetup where dog owners, dog lovers, and dogs meet and enjoy each other’s company. This could be something like meeting up for a walk or a run or just a casual puppy playdate.

This can be a great way to socialize a puppy. But, you will want to make sure that your pup is friendly with other dogs and is well-trained before you go. A scared or anxious puppy that lacks proper training and doesn’t seem to get along with other dogs usually won’t do well in a meetup situation.

4. Pamper Your Puppy

You take care of and love your puppy every day. But, National Puppy Day is a great excuse to spend some extra time with them and pamper them. You can offer them an extra treat like ice cream for dogs, spend some extra time cuddling with them, take them on a relaxing, exploratory walk, play some extra games with them, and more!

5. Adopt a Puppy

If you have been thinking about adding a puppy to your family, adopting one or buying one can be a great way to celebrate National Puppy Day! But, puppies are a big responsibility and a big commitment.

So, before getting drawn in by pictures of adorable puppies, make sure you are ready for the long-term commitment that comes with taking care of a puppy that will grow into a dog. You want to make sure you are in it for the long haul and that you are able to handle their needs.

If you don’t have the time, the space, or the money, or you see these other signs you’re not ready for a puppy as you think about your life, it’s best to wait and celebrate National Puppy Day another way.

10 Other Celebratory Dog Days:

In addition to National Puppy Day, there are plenty of other holidays dedicated to celebrating dogs for every month of the year. This is not an exhaustive list, but here are just a few of the other dog-related holidays and celebrations to put on your calendar:

1. International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day

International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day occurs every year on February 23rd. Although your dog won’t recognize the holiday, they’ll certainly be excited about any treats you might give them to celebrate it.

You can make this day especially special for your dog by making your own dog treats, finding one perfect for your pooch, or creating a whole meal around your dog’s favorite foods. There are plenty of recipes for DIY dog biscuits or you can always purchase some great all-natural dog treats from your local grocer or farmer’s market.

2. National Purebred Dog Day®

National Purebred Dog Day® is celebrated each year on May 1st. This day is all about honoring and celebrating the predictability, diversity, and heritage of purebred dogs. The purpose of the day focuses on how all dogs should be loved and valued regardless of their pedigree or ancestry, but also highlights the cultural history and importance of purpose-bred dogs.

3. National Specially-Abled Pets Day

National Specially-Abled Pets Day is celebrated each year on May 3rd. Whether you adopt a pet with disabilities or something happens to your pet as they age that affects their abilities, this day is all about celebrating all pets, no matter their abilities. A pet that has low vision, requires a wheelchair, is an amputee, and more are all pets that should be equally valued and loved and are all deserving of a loving, forever home.

4. National Mixed Breed Dog Day

National Mixed Breed Dog Day, also known as National Mutt Day, is celebrated twice a year on July 31st and on December 2nd. No matter the age, breed, or background, dogs can be a wonderful addition to your home and family. This day is all about celebrating the wonderful mixes and mutts that fill our lives with love, cuddles, and laughter as well as raising awareness and donations for shelter dogs.

5. National Dog Day

National Dog Day is celebrated each year on August 26th. This is a day to celebrate all dogs while also raising awareness about canine issues and providing education on all things dog. All over the country, there are hundreds of organizations, events, and fundraisers to help pooches find forever homes and stay happy and healthy. Plus, there are plenty of ways to celebrate National Dog Day in your own hometown whether you are, or aren’t, a dog owner.

6. National Checkers Day

National Checkers Day, also known as Dogs in Politics Day, is celebrated each year on September 23rd. This dog holiday is all about recognizing the dogs of politicians. As in any other family, these political pooches are loving, sweet, and adorable dogs that love their owners unconditionally.

7. National Walk Your Dog Week

The first week of October is National Walk Your Dog Week. Regular exercise is important for every dog, young and old, and a nice walk can be the perfect activity for humans and canines alike. Celebrate National Walk Your Dog Week by organizing a dog-walking outing or by just taking your own dog out for an extra walk or two.

8. Animal Welfare Week

The first full week of October is Animal Welfare Week. This week is dedicated to education and raising awareness about issues that affect animals small and large worldwide. It’s all about supporting the welfare of animals all over the world and encouraging the betterment of animals’ lives.

9. National Pet Awareness Month

November is National Pet Awareness Month. This month-long theme is all about celebrating the love and devotion our pets show us. Dogs are definitely included, but this month-long celebration is about all pets.

10. National Senior Pet Month

Also in November is National Senior Pet Month. This month-long celebration is all about loving our own senior pets and also raising awareness to help senior pets in shelters find their forever homes.

These are just a few ways to celebrate National Puppy Day as well as a few other dog-related celebrations throughout the year. Although this is not a full list of everything available, you can bet there’s a day dedicated to whatever you and your dog want to celebrate. After all, every day is a celebration when you spend it with your beloved dog!