International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day

Dog biscuits began as basic wheat-based treats in the 1800s but quickly evolved.

By the 20th century, biscuits with added meat or vitamins became popular for dogs’ health.

Today, “gourmet” dog biscuits include flavors like duck, pumpkin, and even blueberry, mirroring food trends in human diets.

Some brands even make biscuits for special dietary needs, like gluten-free or low-fat options, making dog treats nearly as diverse as human snacks.

Yes, ancient Egyptians reportedly fed their dogs bread-like treats mixed with meat scraps, a rare indulgence usually reserved for working dogs.

Roman soldiers also provided their dogs with bread soaked in meat broth after a day of guard duty or battle.

These early treats strengthened the bond between humans and their canine companions, showcasing the long history of people caring for their dogs through food.

During World War II, meat and wheat rations made it difficult to produce dog biscuits.

Pet owners often made homemade treats using what little was available, like leftover vegetables or grains. When the war ended, the dog biscuit industry resumed, and new brands emerged to meet demand.

The scarcity during the war gave rise to more innovative recipes as pet food companies tried to appeal to owners who had become more aware of their dogs’ needs.

Some dog biscuit flavors cater to specific dog preferences, with unusual options like “green tripe,” a protein-rich, pungent ingredient from animal stomachs.

While tripe isn’t appealing to humans, dogs love it. Another odd flavor is “smoked pheasant,” offered by a U.S. gourmet brand. These unique flavors cater to dogs’ heightened sense of smell, making the treat as tasty as possible for them.

Yes, some biscuits are designed specifically for training or mental exercises.

For example, puzzle-based treats have shapes and sizes that fit inside enrichment toys, encouraging dogs to “work” for the biscuit.

High-value treats, like liver-flavored or freeze-dried meat, are often used in obedience and agility training. This way, biscuits help with mental stimulation while giving dogs a tasty reward.

Queen Victoria’s love for her Pomeranian dogs led her to popularize dog treats among the British aristocracy in the 19th century.

She reportedly had special biscuits made for her dogs by her palace chefs. These royal dog treats helped raise awareness about pet care among the public, boosting the early dog biscuit market.

In India, Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day has a spiritual twist. During the festival of Diwali, many Hindu families give dogs treats, including biscuits, to honor their loyalty.

There is also a special day in Nepal called “Kukur Tihar,” where dogs are given flower garlands and treats, symbolizing gratitude for their companionship.

One myth is that all dog biscuits help clean teeth. While some specially designed biscuits can reduce plaque, many common biscuits are not effective for dental health.

They can even contribute to tartar buildup if made with sugar or starch. For actual dental benefits, vets recommend dental chews designed for plaque control rather than regular dog biscuits.

Yes, several animal shelters and rescue groups use Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day to host “biscuit drives,” collecting dog biscuits to support homeless pets.

Some even bake homemade biscuits and sell them, with proceeds going to fund shelter operations.

This tradition is especially popular in the United States, with biscuit-themed events helping to feed and treat shelter dogs.

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have turned Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day into a viral celebration.

Pet owners post creative videos of their dogs doing tricks or “taste-testing” different treats. Some influencers even create biscuit “reviews” for their pets.

The trend has inspired new businesses offering subscription boxes with gourmet biscuits and unique flavors. This online excitement has made the holiday a bigger event each year.