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National Dog Mom’s Day: When It Is & How It Is Celebrated

Jeff Weishaupt

By Jeff Weishaupt

young woman owner with her Jack Russell Terrier at home

Many dog owners wonder if National Dog Mom’s Day is a thing. Yes, it is. This special day is celebrated on the second Saturday of May every year, one day before Mother’s Day. The day is about paying tribute to all the dog moms out there who care for their pets like family members.

As animal lovers, we bring a puppy home as a new addition to our family. We care for them, shelter them, fulfill their daily needs, and play with them. Their happiness matters most to us, so we always put them first.

National Dog Mom’s Day cherishes the relationship women share with their furry friends. But how did this day originate, and how can you celebrate it correctly? Let’s find out in this article.

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The History of National Dog Mom’s Day

Dogs date back to 40,000 years ago when their ancestors started living with human hunters. Dogs are believed to come from wolves, particularly the grey wolves from ancient Eurasia. This was before humans began domesticating cattle, plants, and other animals.

However, it is still unknown how wild wolves evolve into different dog breeds, including Spaniels, Chihuahuas, and Poodles. But we are sure they established a deep symbiotic connection with humans that benefitted both parties. Over time, these dogs adapted to the nomadic lifestyle of their owners and soon spread to different parts of the world.

The multiple-domestication theory says that the wild wolves from East Eurasia were not the only group being domesticated at that time. Instead, another group of wolves went through the same in the Western area.

Almost 5,000 years ago, humans from the east brought dogs to the west. Soon, the migrated dogs outnumbered the Western dogs and became the dominant breed.

During the Victorian era, humans started breeding dogs to have more resources for different activities. That is why we have dog breeds with diverse expertise. Some are firefighting or rescue dogs, while others are companion or guide breeds.

Fast forwarding to many years, a dog owner launched a dating app called “Dig” that gave the idea to celebrate “National Dog Mom’s Day” in 2018. The goal was to pay tribute to all the dog-loving women and thank them for adopting and providing dogs with the best life.

australian sheperd dog licking female owner
Image by: Jennay Hitesman, Shutterstock

When Is National Dog Mom’s Day?

National Dog Mom’s Day is celebrated on the second Saturday of every May. So, its date varies each year. Here is when “National Dog Mom’s Day” will be celebrated this year and in the coming few years:

Year Date
2023 May 13
2024 May 11
2025 May 10
2026 May 9

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Top 5 Ways to Celebrate National Dog Mom’s Day

If you are a dog mother, National Dog Mom’s Day is all about you and how you want to celebrate it.

No matter what you choose to do on this day, ensure that you and your pup spend lots of time together. For your ease, we have listed the five best ways to celebrate this special day in its true essence.

1. Visit a Dog-Friendly Cafe

On National Dog Mom’s Day, spare some time and visit your nearest cafe or eatery with your pup. But make sure that it is dog friendly. Luckily, there are many such restaurants across the US, so all you have to do is research thoroughly.

The best way to choose the right restaurant is by checking its menu. Simply visit BringFido, enter your location, and pick the eatery that offers your and your pup’s favorite foods. You can also call a restaurant to confirm whether it allows dogs.

Once you pick a restaurant, leash up your dog, and head to the location. What’s better than a day spent with your fur baby and eating good food?

welsh corgi cardigan dog and his owner
Image by: Krichevtseva, Shutterstock

2. Go for a Hike

Do you love to hike? If so, why not take your pup along on this National dog Mom’s Day? In case you don’t know, dogs love exploring new things, especially when their owners are with them. So, leave every excuse behind and prepare your dog for some hiking.

While you will love having a companion, your dog will enjoy seeing different sceneries and smelling unique things. But remember, dogs have varying stamina and energy levels, so do not tire your dog with excessive hiking.

Wear your hiking shoes, take your equipment, and head to the mountains!


3. Spend Time With Fellow Dog Moms

Have you ever met a fellow dog mom when walking in your nearest park? Did your pup enjoy spending time with her dog? If so, why not connect with them and invite them over for a playdate? Believe us, this is the best way to spend National Dog Mom’s Day.

With this method, not only will you get a friend with similar concerns, but your pup will also have a dog to socialize and play with. Isn’t this a win-win situation?


4. Watch a Movie at Home

You can also enjoy National Dog Mom’s Day at home, snuggling with your furry friend. That’s the best way to refresh yourself and prepare for the next weekend. So, find an interesting dog movie and watch it with your pup.


5. Bake Treats at Home

Are you one of those who believe no special day should go without baking? If so, take your pet to the kitchen and bake delicious cookies and cakes.

However, ensure you’re making a treat that your dog can eat safely. So, instead of a normal flour and egg cake, layer a few veggies, chicken, and ground beef to make a special dog-friendly cake. Your pet will go crazy even from the smell of this treat!

But what to do if you’re not a baking expert? You can offer biscuits and dog chews to treat your pet and solidify that you’re the best dog mom ever!

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Conclusion

National Dog Mom’s Day is about crediting every dog mom for her efforts to make a pup’s life better. This day was introduced by a dog-dating app called Dig, designed by a responsible dog owner in 2018. It is celebrated on the second Saturday of May.

It’s the day when you, as a dog mom, should spend some time with your furry friend. You can do so in various ways, such as baking homemade treats, watching movies, visiting a dog-friendly restaurant, or hiking. You can also enjoy a playdate with another dog mom.

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Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

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