Let's Paw-Ty: 7 Dog Birthday Party Ideas That'll Have Tails Wagging
Published June 7 2023, 5:03 p.m. ET
Dogs aren’t only humanity's best friend, they are part of our family. You may even consider your dog as your child. So when your dog’s birthday comes around, you want to plan something extra special.
Whether planning a big event and inviting your friends or just treating your dog to their favorite activity, plenty of dog birthday party ideas are available to help you celebrate. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Have a house party.
Invite your friends, family members, and their dogs over for doggie-friendly cake and ice cream. You can get party hats for the pooches, play fun games with your pets, and hand out “doggie bags” to all those who attend.
You’ll want to make sure to have enough room for the pups to play with each other and run around outside. And, it's important to know that all the dogs attending the party get along well with other dogs.
2. Plan a play date.
Having a party with a bunch of dogs may get chaotic, so another option is to plan a play date for your dog with one or two of their closest friends. Invite your dog’s friends and their parents to your place or meet at a local dog park where the dogs can run around and have fun together.
3. Bake them a cake.
A birthday isn’t complete without a birthday cake! But giving your dog the birthday cake humans eat isn't wise because it may contain ingredients that can make your dog sick. Instead, opt for a more dog-friendly cake like the Spoiled Dog Cake or Milk Bar Inspired Birthday Cake for Dogs.
4. Take them on an extra long walk.
Does your dog love to go for walks? Then let him do what he (or she) loves and take them on a long walk or hike, giving them extra time to explore. This can also be beneficial for you to help you destress and leave your worries behind you.
5. Pamper your pooch.
On your dog’s special day, treat them like the diva they are with a “paw”dicure, doggie massage, or deluxe grooming appointment. You can also make them a home-cooked meal of their favorite (dog-safe!) people food.
6. Let them pick out their birthday present
Pet stores like PetSmart and Petco usually let you bring your dog into the store with you while you shop. For Fido’s birthday, make a special trip to the store and let him pick out his own birthday present from the number of dog toys there.
7. Take them out to eat.
Many restaurants with patios allow dog owners to bring their fur babies on their outdoor patios without needing a service dog registration. For your dog's birthday, take them to a restaurant patio and order them something off the menu, like a burger without the fixings. The website BringFido.com provides information on what restaurants allow you to bring your dog on their patios.
