International Dog Day 2024

Who, when, what, why?

International Dog Day is observed annually on August 26 to honour all dogs - no matter their shapes, sizes, age or breeds and encourage adoption to all those who have yet to find a home and a family forever.

It is a good and symbolic occasion to celebrate man's best friend and to remember that every dog around the world should deserve a better life: a life of joy, love, protection, care and respect. A special day to raise awareness about dog adoption because if you are looking for a life’s companion, shelters are full of four-legged friends who are waiting for their chance and will bring just happiness to your days.

Today we also want to give special thought to all dogs that are still left behind in many parts of the world because people, government or local authorities do not care. We should remember all dogs killed, abused, mistreated, but also those who live homeless, in suffering with no care and need to be helped and rescued. This day was created in 2004 by Colleen Paige, a pet and family lifestyle expert and animal advocate who chose to celebrate the day on August 26 as it was the date that her family adopted their first dog 'Sheltie' from an animal shelter home.

Since the first celebration in 2004, National Dog Day has grown in popularity and is now celebrated across the world as International Dog Day.

Today choose to celebrate by giving your dog an extra cuddle, but also do not forget the others and help them by volunteering in a shelter, making a donation or consciously adopting your friend forever. Be sure to spend this day acknowledging how wonderful and valuable dogs are and give them something positive back as they deserve.