National Dog Parent Appreciation Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

National Dog Parent Appreciation Day is observed on April 19 each year. This day honours all the extraordinary, hardworking canine parents who care for their puppies with great care and responsibility. Being a dog parent is one of the greatest pleasures in the world, but it is also a difficult, time-consuming, and detailed endeavour. This day must be used to honour those who accept the responsibilities and challenges of being a dog parent and provide attractive, healthy lives for the world’s puppies.

The background of National Dog Parent Appreciation Day

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact date that dogs first appeared, but it is safe to state that they have existed for centuries. Dogs are thought to be descended from ancient wolves and continue to resemble contemporary wolves.

However, the domestication of canines did not occur immediately upon their evolution. The domestication of dogs is believed to have begun between 27,000 and 40,000 years ago, when feral wolves were drawn to human settlements in search of leftover sustenance. Over time, they began to travel with nomads, and a form of natural selection led to domestication. China, the Middle East, and Europe were among the first regions to domesticate modern canines, according to studies.

Since then, dogs have carved out a special position in society and in our hearts. They provide us with emotional support, protection, and even family ties. In exchange for the affection and happiness they bring into our lives, they require care and attention, which is where dog parents come into play.

From dietary restrictions and schedules to uncontrollable and frequently unpredictable bathroom habits, dogs require the discipline of their human parents to remain healthy. Ensuring that your dog is routinely groomed and doesn’t eat anything it shouldn’t is time-consuming and requires significant effort from the dog’s parents. This can be especially difficult for working parents who must spend considerable time away from home. Being a canine parent involves a great deal of responsibility and requires ample time, effort, and resources. National Dog Parent Appreciation Day is a day to remind dog parents that their love and vitality are appreciated by everyone, and that they are deserving of all the puppy cuddles in the world for their hard work.

NATIONAL DOG PARENT APPRECIATION DAY ACTIVITIES

Appreciate dog guardians

Whether you are a canine parent yourself or know someone who is, use this day to express your appreciation for them. It can be personalised, regardless of how large or small a salutation you desire — the thought is what counts!

Children, spend the day with your canine

As a dog parent, there is nothing more satisfying than seeing your canine offspring joyful and healthy. Spend some quality time with your canine child and revel in the privilege of being a responsible dog parent.

Tell your story

Share on social media your National canine Parent Appreciation Day content or canine parenting anecdotes. Join the national celebration with the hashtag #ProudDogParents.

5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT OUR PUP PALS

Dogs can detect odours 40 times better than humans.

Occasionally, dogs are stronger swimmers than humans.

Some canines have the ability to outrun cheetahs.

As with humans, dogs have a dominant left or right limb.

Dogs are capable of hearing frequencies significantly higher and lower than humans.

NATIONAL DOG PARENT APPRECIATION DAY DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	April 19	Wednesday
2024	April 19	Friday
2025	April 19	Saturday
2026	April 19	Sunday
2027	April 19	Monday