National Hug Your Dog Day is a heartwarming celebration dedicated to the unconditional love and companionship dogs bring into our lives. Observed annually on April 10, this day reminds dog owners to take a moment to appreciate their furry friends with an affectionate hug. Dogs have earned their title as “man’s best friend,” and this special day gives us an excuse to shower them with the love they deserve.
National Hug Your Dog Day was created by pet expert Ami Moore, often called the “Dog Whisperer of Chicago.” She wanted to encourage stronger bonds between humans and their dogs. The day emphasizes the importance of physical affection for dogs, which can reduce stress and build trust.
🐾 For more dogs, cats, and pets national days, visit the dedicated pages or use the search feature on our website to find exactly what you’re looking for!
When Is National Hug Your Dog Day Celebrated?
National Hug Your Dog Day is celebrated on April 10 each year. Mark your calendar to make your dog feel extra loved! Here’s when it will occur in the coming years:
| Year | Date & Day of the Week |
|---|---|
| 2025 | April 10, Thursday |
| 2026 | April 10, Friday |
| 2027 | April 10, Saturday |
| 2028 | April 10, Monday |
| 2029 | April 10, Tuesday |
| 2030 | April 10, Wednesday |
Facts For National Hug Your Dog Day
Dogs are more than just loyal companions; they thrive on affection and connection with their humans. Here are some fun facts about how hugs and physical touch benefit your furry friend:
- Dogs often enjoy physical touch, like hugs or gentle pats, as a way to bond with their owners.
- Hugs and close contact can reduce stress in dogs by lowering their heart rate and releasing calming hormones.
- While many dogs love hugs, some may prefer other forms of affection like belly rubs or gentle cuddles.
- Knowing your dog’s body language is important to ensure they’re comfortable with hugs, as not all dogs enjoy them in every situation.
Ways to Celebrate National Hug Your Dog Day
National Hug Your Dog Day is the perfect time to show your furry friend some extra love. Here are some ways to celebrate:
- Give Them a Hug: Start the day with a gentle hug to let your dog know how much they mean to you.
- Plan a Fun Outing: Take your dog to their favorite park, go for a hike, or enjoy a long walk together.
- Share the Moment: Post a photo of you hugging your dog on social media using hashtags like #HugYourDogDay.
Before You Go:
We have many more national days lists for you to explore.
- Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
- Non-food national days: National Days Calendar 2025 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
- Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.
