Big paws up for National Dog Day on 26 August

You’ve heard the saying “every dog has his day”? Well, apparently that day is Saturday 26 August, which sees the advent of National Dog Day. Originally created in America as a way of raising attention for the plight of rescue dogs, it’s been highlighted in the UK by organisations such as Guide Dogs.

Here are our suggestions for ways to enjoy the dog days of summer.

National Dog Day is really focused on rescue dogs. While not everyone has the space, time or inclination to actually adopt a new four-legged family member, most rescue centres such as the Dogs’ Trust and the Blue Cross have sponsorship schemes where you can ‘adopt’ a dog virtually. You could also consider a fund raising event, or donating food or bedding to your local rescue centre.

For dog owners, National Dog Day is a great excuse to spoil Rover just that little bit more. Why not try something new with him, whether it’s a longer walk than usual, a doggy play date or a new activity such as flyball or dog agility? If your dog’s never travelled, that weekend could be the ideal time to book a dog-friendly weekend away. Most dogs love the beach or splashing in lakes, so get out there for some dog-gone fun.

If your dog is more the stay at home type, then celebrate with a special treat. Most dogs (surprisingly) love fish, so next time you’re serving fish such as salmon fillets for the human meal, remove the skin after cooking and crisp it up in the oven for a few minutes to make a healthy, tasty, chewy treat.

Discerning dogs need stylish accessories, so we’ve followed our noses to track down these treat tins and bowls.

Large dog food tin, Happy Jackson

This tin, £22.95, is big enough to keep your furry friend’s food in but small enough to keep in a cupboard. Available from Temptation Gifts.

Scottie round dog bowl, Fenella Smith

If you’re looking to treat your pooch, Fenella Smith’s Scottie round dog bowl is the perfect choice for picky pooches. £28, available from Fenella Smith. Other designs available.

Pet bins, Garden Trading

Don’t worry – these aren’t bins for pets, but for pet food! Perfect for keeping pet food, treats and toys close to hand, these bins are available in a range of sizes and colours. Some of styles feature a blackboard ‘label’ on the front, so you can mark the contents on the front. Prices start at £23.50, available from Garden Trading.

Terrier bowl, Sophie Allport

Feed your dogs in style with this galvanised steel bowl, which has a capacity of 0.5 litres. There is a practical non-slip rubber rim around the base to ensure it doesn’t tip over or slip around while your dog is eating. £14, available from Sophie Allport. Available in other designs.

Personalised enamel dog bowl, Sophia Victoria Joy

Any meal will look good in this personalised enamel pet bowl, complete with puppy paw design and your choice of your pet’s name. £12, available from Not on the High Street. 

Personalised treat storage jar, Kelso and Titch

This ceramic storage treats jar has an air tight lid, perfect for keeping your treats safely away from wandering paws! Made from sturdy white ceramic, it’s easy to keep clean and will look good on the kitchen shelf as well. £19.99, available from Not on the High Street. 

Main image: Pixabay

By Sara Walker.