International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day
Whether you're training or just want to show them some love, dog biscuits are sure to get your dog's tail wagging and stomach growling.
Every dog has its day – and this is it! International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day causes dogs of every kind to wag their tails with glee when their owners serve up unusual or home-made doggy snacks to mark the occasion.
Every canine in the world knows the best way to celebrate this important day! Today, dog biscuits are often used in training and as rewards in the show ring.
There are even special types of biscuits which clean dogs’ teeth – so giving that best friend a treat can help to keep him healthy and happy in celebration of International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day!
How to Celebrate International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day
Get on board and have so much fun in honor of International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day! Try out a few fun and exciting ideas for celebrating the day, including some of these:
Buy Your Pup Some Dog Biscuits
Clearly, the first order of business when it comes to celebrating International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day is to invest in some delicious and nutritious treats that can be shared with the family pet.
Perhaps it’s just a box or bag of his favorite brand of treats that comes from the grocery store or pet store. Or maybe it’s a gourmet version that can be found in a local dog bakery or online.
Make Your Own Dog Biscuits
Tons of recipes can be found online for making fresh, homemade, nutritious dog biscuits. In celebration of International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, get out that apron and get to work baking biscuits.
You can even cut them out into fun little shapes with cute cookie cutters! Feel good about the treats Rover is getting by making them at home.
Take Your Pup for a Little Doggy Date
Spending some time with your canine companion is a lovely way to spend International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day!
Grab the pup and take him to the dog park to enjoy some companionship with some other puppies. And of course, don’t forget to bring the little dog treats.
Even better, take the pup out on a walk to a local dog biscuit bakery and let them choose the kind of treat that they want for themselves. What a great way to show your dog how much they are appreciated and loved.
Make a Donation of Dog Biscuits
One way to celebrate International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, even if you aren’t a dog owner, is to make a donation of dog biscuits to a local animal shelter.
These shelters often work on a non-profit basis and have very tight budgets. Even though they would certainly love to offer some extra special treats for their pups in honor of the day, they may not have it in their financial means to do so.
Making a donation of a few bags or boxes of dog biscuits or treats would be the perfect way to feel good about sharing with a pup in need in honor of the day!
History of International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day
When dog treats got started, they were basically comprised of old food that the humans simply didn’t want. Moldy bread, bones from some meat or other scraps. It wasn’t until the 19th century that treats made just for dogs became a thing.
The first dog biscuits were developed in the mid-19th century by an American manufacturer named James Spratt.
He came up with the idea after he visited Liverpool in England, where he observed stray dogs hungrily digging into the biscuits on ships. The first Spratts biscuits were produced in London, with a secret recipe including both meat and vegetables.
Then, in the early 20th century, dog biscuits took on the shape of little dog bones when the Milk-Bone dog biscuit company patented their treats in New York. And, of course, the more recent trend of gourmet bakeries just for dogs has taken things even further.
International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day is here to pay honor to these delightful ittle treats and the canines who love them!
International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day FAQs
How did dog biscuits evolve from simple treats to gourmet snacks?
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.
Are there any ancient civilizations known for feeding their dogs special treats?
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.
How did World War II impact the availability and popularity of dog biscuits?
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.
What’s the strangest dog biscuit flavor that actually exists?
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.
Are there any dog biscuits linked to improving mental stimulation or training?
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.
Did any famous historical figures have a connection to dog biscuits?
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.
Do any countries celebrate Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day differently due to cultural beliefs?
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.
Are there any health myths about dog biscuits?
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.
Has Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day inspired any charity events?
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.
How has social media impacted Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day?
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.
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
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