National Make a Dog’s Day

Because Every Dog Deserves a Tail Wag!

We all know dogs are more than just pets—they’re best friends, loyal companions, and the ultimate experts at making you feel like a superstar simply because you exist. National Make a Dog's Day, celebrated on October 22nd, is a day dedicated to returning the favor by ensuring every dog has a day as special as they make ours. Whether it's belly rubs galore, extra treats, or a romp in the park, this is the day to spoil your furry friend rotten.

But how did this paw-some day come to be? Let’s fetch some facts!

How National Make a Dog’s Day Began

National Make a Dog’s Day originated in 2019 as part of Subaru’s larger commitment to helping dogs in need, particularly shelter dogs who often face longer waits for adoption. Subaru is well-known for its dog-friendly commercials and partnerships with animal welfare organizations, so it’s no surprise that the car company decided to take their canine support a step further with an official holiday.

The heart of this day is about encouraging people to adopt the "underdogs"—those senior dogs, dogs with special needs, or those who might not fit the traditional picture of the perfect pet but still deserve a loving home. These are the dogs who sometimes get overlooked at shelters. They're the ones with graying fur, a bit of a limp, or quirky habits that can make potential adopters hesitate. But to those who’ve adopted them, these so-called imperfections only add to their charm.

Subaru’s goal was to shine a spotlight on these dogs and encourage people to consider adoption, particularly during October’s Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. The company’s message was simple: every dog, no matter their age, size, or condition, deserves to have a day made just for them. It’s about creating awareness for all dogs but focusing especially on those who need a little extra help finding their forever homes.

Since its inception, National Make a Dog’s Day has grown beyond just a Subaru initiative. Animal shelters, rescue organizations, and dog lovers everywhere have embraced the day as an opportunity to spoil their furry friends while raising awareness for adoption and shelter support. It’s not uncommon to see social media flooded with photos of pampered pooches enjoying special treats, new toys, or long walks in the park—all in the name of making their day just a little brighter.

But Subaru’s initiative didn’t stop at social media campaigns and cute commercials. They’ve also partnered with animal shelters across the country to host adoption events, raise funds, and spread the word about the benefits of bringing home a shelter dog, particularly the underappreciated seniors and those with special needs. Subaru’s own research revealed that 68% of their customers have a pet, and 50% of those are dogs—so it was a natural fit to create a holiday that not only promotes adoption but also celebrates the deep connection between people and their pups.

Subaru has long been associated with adventure, the outdoors, and family, and for many, dogs are an integral part of that lifestyle. They’re the companions on road trips, the enthusiastic hiking partners, and the ones who never complain when the windows are rolled down, even in the rain. National Make a Dog’s Day fits perfectly into this ethos, offering a day dedicated to the appreciation and celebration of all the ways dogs make our lives better—on and off the road.

In a world where days are often marked for various causes, National Make a Dog’s Day stands out because of its heartfelt simplicity: make a dog happy. Whether it’s through adoption, volunteering at a shelter, or just spoiling your own dog with extra attention, the day reminds us of the unconditional love and joy dogs bring into our lives and the importance of giving back to them.

Through Subaru’s efforts, the day has helped increase awareness of the challenges shelter dogs face and has led to more homes opening their doors to pets who otherwise might have been overlooked. It’s a day that continues to grow in popularity, with shelters reporting spikes in adoptions and donations, all thanks to the idea that, for at least one day a year, we make a special effort to ensure every dog’s tail wags just a little harder.

Why Do We Love Dogs So Much?

There are countless reasons why dogs hold a special place in our hearts. Sure, cats might think they’re royalty, but dogs act like you’re the royal one! They’re always happy to see you, no matter how bad your day was. Imagine having someone so excited to see you that their whole body wags, not just their tail. That’s love.

Here are some scientifically-backed reasons why dogs are the best:

• Loyalty beyond compare: Dogs have a pack mentality, and when you adopt one, congratulations—you’ve just been promoted to pack leader. Your dog will stick by your side like glue, whether you’re watching TV, hiking a mountain, or... yes, even in the bathroom.

• Mood boosters: Dogs can sense your emotions. Feeling down? Your dog’s not having it! They’ll snuggle right up to you, maybe even bring their favorite toy, offering their unique brand of doggie therapy. Science even shows that just petting a dog can reduce stress and increase serotonin levels.

• Exercise motivators: Forget the gym. Dogs have a built-in workout routine: walk, run, chase, repeat! They don’t care if you’re tired—they want you outside, throwing that ball again and again.

How to Celebrate National Make a Dog’s Day

So how can you make this the best day ever for your dog? Here are some ideas:

• Adopt a Dog: If you’re ready for a furry new family member, National Make a Dog’s Day is the perfect time to visit a shelter. Who knows? You might meet a dog who’s been waiting for someone like you to give them the life they deserve.

• Spoil Your Dog: If you already have a dog, today’s the day to go all out. Fancy dog treats? Check. Extra-long walk? Absolutely. A new toy that squeaks obnoxiously every time your dog bites it? Hey, it's their day, right?

• DIY Dog Spa: Turn your bathroom into a luxury dog spa. Baths might not be their favorite thing, but with some extra pampering, your pup will feel (and smell) like a million bucks.

• Playdate with Pals: Set up a doggie playdate! Socialization is key to a happy, well-rounded dog, and what better way to celebrate than by letting your dog run around with their friends? Just be prepared for lots of sniffing, tail wagging, and barking.

• Donate to Shelters: For those who want to help but can’t adopt, donating food, toys, or money to a local shelter makes a huge difference. Even better—volunteer to walk shelter dogs and make their day brighter.

Fun Dog Facts You Might Not Know

1. Dogs have a sense of time: They know the difference between an hour and five minutes. If you leave for too long, that dramatic "Where have you been all my life?" greeting when you return is genuine.

2. They dream just like us: Ever see your dog twitching in their sleep? They’re probably chasing something—likely that squirrel that always seems to get away.

3. A dog’s nose print is as unique as a human fingerprint: If only we could get them to sign their contracts with a sniff!

4. They know when you're faking it: Dogs can tell when you're truly happy or when you're just trying to hide stress or sadness. They’ll respond accordingly—usually with kisses or snuggling.

5. Dogs have an amazing sense of smell: They can smell things 40 times better than humans. This is why they can tell when you’ve opened a bag of chips from across the house and, of course, be right there hoping for a treat.

Senior and Disabled Dogs

One of the most heartwarming parts of National Make a Dog’s Day is its focus on senior and disabled dogs. These pups often wait longer to be adopted, and many live out their lives in shelters. But those who have adopted older or differently-abled dogs know the joy they bring. They may move a little slower, but their hearts are as big as ever, and they have so much love to give.

If you can open your home to one of these amazing dogs, you’ll be making more than just their day—you’ll be making their life. And in return, they’ll fill your life with gratitude, joy, and a few extra snores.

On National Make a Dog's Day, every tail wag, every excited bark, and every slobbery kiss is a thank you from your dog for all you do. So whether you’re celebrating with a new dog, a long-time companion, or by helping dogs in need, this is a day to make every dog feel like the top dog.

After all, we owe them a day as awesome as they make ours!

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