Seasons & Holidays

12 Ways to Celebrate National Dog Mom’s Day

Stella & Chewy's  |  October 30, 2023  |  6 minute read

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Observed on the second Saturday each May, National Dog Mom’s Day is the perfect opportunity to spend some extra time with woman’s best friend! Here are some of our favorite ways to spend Dog Mom’s Day.

Adopt a Dog

If you’ve always wanted to be a dog mom, this is the perfect day to make it happen. Or if you’re ready to grow your family, Dog Mom’s Day is a great day to welcome a new dog into your household. For first-time dog moms, be sure to check out our checklist for new dog and puppy parents for a smooth transition. 

Take a Special Hike or Walk

Sometimes going for a hike or walk with your dog is the best part of their day, and yours too! Be sure to pick a trail or walking path that works for both you and your dog’s energy levels, because you don’t want to spoil your special day by trying to conquer a beast that’s unrealistic or feel underwhelmed by a simple stroll. You’ll also want to pack ample snacks and water for your journey ahead. While granola bars or fresh fruit might work for you, try one of our delicious, protein-packed dog treats to keep your pup energized.

Make Homemade Dog Treats

Love to bake? Try one of these homemade dog treats or dog biscuit recipes that your good boy or girl is sure to love! While their treats are in the oven, be sure to make your favorite dessert to indulge in too (it’s your day, after all!). As with any cooking or baking activities with your pet, keep ingredients that could be harmful to dogs out of reach.

Unwind with a Spa Day

Break out the bathrobes and let the pampering begin. Whether you go all-out with a face mask and manicure or simply sit on the couch and relax in your robe, kick back and enjoy with your dog by your side! To share the spa-like experience, you can give your dog a massage or a good brushing—you know what they’ll enjoy most. 

Spa day tip: your dog will have an easier time enjoying a low-key afternoon with you if they’re tuckered out from a long walk, game of fetch, or your pup’s favorite form of exercise.

Picnic with Your Pup

You can go to a dog-friendly park or beach, or even throw a picnic party in your own backyard. Be sure to not only pack food for yourself, but for your dog as well. To make the experience unforgettable, pack your comfiest blanket to lounge on and fun toys for your pup to play with. You can even bring a yummy barkuterie board for your pup to enjoy.

Plan a Dog Mom Playdate

You know what they say– the more the merrier! Call up your fellow dog mom friends and plan a special playdate for all of your pups to get together on National Dog Mom’s Day. This experience will be beneficial for both you and your dog, because who doesn’t love getting together with their girlfriends and watching adorable pups play?

Hanging with friends is not only fun, but socializing is also important for people and dogs. It’s associated with better immune system function, it’s good for brain health, and it promotes feelings of belonging and security. Having playdates with other dogs also helps your pup develop (or reinforce) good behaviors. And having friends who are dog moms is a great idea because you can swap recommendations for veterinarians or products, and help each other out with things like pet sitting in a pinch.

Go Camping in the Living Room

Take inspiration from camping in the great outdoors and enjoy it in the comfort and safety of your own home! Grab your pup, set up a tent or fort, and turn on a campfire background on your laptop or TV to really get into the spirit. Don’t forget to bring tasty treats for yourself and Wild Weenies for your pup.

Capture Memories with a Photoshoot

Whether you take a selfie, use the timer feature on your phone or camera, or hire a professional pet photographer, capture your National Dog Mom’s Day moment! You’ll love looking back on the photos portraying  the special bond between you and your dog.

Create a Pet Portrait

If there’s one subject that’s worth being painted, it’s definitely your dog! Grab your painting or drawing supplies and get to work. Another fun way to get your pup to join in is to grab a clay paw print mold kit and stamp a memory that will last a lifetime. You can also check online to see if there are any art studios hosting paint-your-pet parties. While you’re online, check out any number of companies that use a photo of your dog to create a custom paint-by-number portrait! However you do it, a beautiful piece of art featuring your pup is sure to be the focal point of your home décor.

Take Your Dog on a Date

Look for a pet-friendly café, restaurant, brewery or beer garden in your area, and spend some time with your dog in a new setting. Some dog-friendly venues even provide water bowls and treats for four-legged customers. You can meet up with other dog moms and dogs, or simply enjoy the people-and-pup watching. Either way, your dog is sure to appreciate the change of scenery, and you might even make some new friends!

Go on a Shopping Spree at a Dog-Friendly Store

Who doesn’t love a good shopping spree? Treat yourself and your dog to gifts from a dog-friendly store! You can find neighborhood pet stores near you by using our Store Locator. Do you and your dog already have everything you need? Share the love by making a donation to a local shelter!

Join in Local Dog Mom’s Day Events

Dog Mom’s Day has been around since 2018, and it’s extremely popular! A quick online search for Dog Mom’s Day events in your city will likely turn up some fun ideas. Here in the Milwaukee region (near Stella & Chewy’s headquarters) there are breweries, bars, yoga studios and even sculpture gardens getting in on the celebration.

Stella & Chewy’s Loves Dog Moms

Dog Mom’s Day isn’t just for women who have their own canine companion. If you know someone who fosters dogs, volunteers at a shelter, or is missing a dog who’s passed on, Dog Mom’s Day is a special time to reach out and let them know you’re thinking of them. A friendly message or a visit with you and your dog might be more appreciated than you know! Regardless of how you celebrate, we hope you have a great time with your dog. To learn more about our products, updates, and more, check out Our Blog: For the Pet Obsessed. Happy Dog Mom’s Day to you!