National Pet Day (April 11th) is the perfect excuse to shower your dog with even more love than usual — and let’s be honest, they deserve it. Our furry companions give us joy, comfort, and unconditional loyalty all year round, so why not return the favor with a day devoted just to them?
Whether your pup is a zoomie-loving goofball or a couch-snoozing cuddle bug, we’ve put together 10 fun, thoughtful ways to show your dog some extra love this National Pet Day — with a little help from your friends at Patches & Pets.
1. Go on an Adventure Walk
Switch up your usual route and take your pup somewhere new — a hiking trail, a beach, or a pet-friendly park. New sights, smells, and experiences are a form of enrichment that dogs absolutely love.
2. Make a Homemade Treat
Bake a batch of dog-friendly cookies with ingredients like peanut butter, banana, and oats. There are tons of easy recipes online that don’t require any fancy tools — just love and maybe a paw-shaped cookie cutter for flair.
3. Rock Your Dog Breed Hat from Patches & Pets
Okay, this one’s for you and your pup. Show off your dog-parent pride with a custom dog breed hat from Patches & Pets — available in comfy baseball and classic trucker styles. Each hat is beautifully embroidered with the breed of your choice and can even feature an image inspired by your very own dog. Whether you're out walking your pup or snapping a selfie together, it’s a stylish way to say, "Yep, I’m that dog person."
Bonus: Matching your look with your pup’s personality? Instant social media gold. Tag us when you post — we love seeing our hats out in the wild!
4. Schedule a Pup Spa Day
Treat your dog to a relaxing grooming session. Brush their coat, trim their nails, give them a bath (if they’re into that sort of thing), and finish with a good ear scratch. Or, if you want to keep it simple, book a professional groom and let someone else do the dirty work!
5. Plan a Dog Date
Organize a playdate with your dog’s best furry friend. Whether it’s a romp in the backyard or a meet-up at the dog park, the social time is great for your dog’s mental and physical health.
6. Upgrade Their Toys
Let’s face it: that squeaky hedgehog is on its last leg. Surprise your dog with a new toy — something interactive, chewable, or puzzle-based to keep their brain engaged and tail wagging.
7. Capture the Moment
Hire a pet photographer or just have a little DIY photoshoot at home. Use treats and toys to get those adorable head tilts and toothy grins. Not only will your dog love the attention, but you'll also end up with frame-worthy memories.
8. Make a Donation in Their Honor
Celebrate your dog’s life by giving back. Donate supplies or funds to a local animal shelter or rescue group in your dog’s name. It's a great way to spread the love and help pups still looking for their forever home.
9. Teach a New Trick
Dogs love a challenge — and the treats that come with it. Whether it’s a basic “roll over” or a fancier trick like “high five,” learning something new strengthens your bond and keeps your dog’s mind active.
10. Do Absolutely Nothing (Together)
Sometimes the best way to celebrate is simply to be. Curl up on the couch, let your pup rest their head on your lap, and soak in that pure doggy love. No agenda, no expectations — just presence.
At the end of the day, National Pet Day is really about gratitude.
Gratitude for the joy, loyalty, and tail-wagging companionship our dogs bring to our lives. However you celebrate, make it personal, heartfelt, and — of course — a little fun.
And if you're rocking one of our custom hats while you do it? Even better. 🐾
