Every day is a great day to celebrate dogs, but National Dog Day, held annually on August 26th, is a day that gives us an extra special reason to show our four-legged friends just how much we love and appreciate them.

Here at Paw.com, we’re passionate about making life better for our furry friends. After all, they deserve it. Dogs bring so much joy to our lives and we'll always be grateful for them. 

Here are 5 ways to celebrate National Dog Day:

1.) Make your dog a delicious treat

If you like to bake or if you just want to show your pup you care, bake or pick up their favorite treats. These dog friendly recipes are guaranteed to make your dog's tail wag! All ingredients in these recipes are considered safe for dogs, but as with humans, it's always good to make sure there are no dog allergies or sensitivities to any of the ingredients.   

2.) Teach your dog something new

Teaching your dog a new trick is an activity you can do together and is something that has been shown to strengthen the bond in a dog-human relationship. Plus, they’ll get extra attention and treats, which is an added bonus. You don't need to be a dog training expert to teach your pal a new skill. Check out some tutorials online on teaching your dog new tricks. The key to teaching your four-legged friend a new trick is positive reinforcement by rewarding their good behavior with a treat or their favorite toy. Teaching your pup a trick is a fun task that will make your life and your pup's life more enjoyable!

3.) Pamper your pup

Pamper your pup with a dog bed they'll love just as much as you do. With a pressure-relieving memory foam base, removable and washable cover, and a design that blends into home decor, your pup will be in doggie heaven and you won't have to choose between a beautiful home and a happy dog. Ultimately, you love your dog and want what's best for them. Paw.com's cozy and stylish dog beds ensure your furry pal can chase squirrels in their doggie dreams, and you can doze off with ease knowing that everyone is in for a good night's sleep.

4.) Give your furry friend extra cuddles

Nothing quite beats the feeling of snuggling up next to your favorite furry friend. Cuddling with your dog will show them how much you love them and will actually benefit both of you. Every time you snuggle with your pooch, their levels of oxytocin — the hormone associated with love, attachment, and trust — rise, as do your own. Studies have shown that a cuddle a day can even have multiple psychological benefits for both your and your dog. Cuddles reduce the level of Cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, anxiety, and depression. With lower levels of Cortisol, you're more likely to feel happier and more relaxed. A cuddle a day keeps the doctor away!

5.) Make a donation

Celebrate all dogs, not just your own, by making a donation to an animal welfare organization. Consider giving back to your local community and bringing a basket of new dog toys to a nearby shelter or pet rescue. The dogs will enjoy the gifts and you'll feel good knowing you brought joy to some well-deserving dogs. We at Paw.com are proud to have partnered up with the Humane Society of Broward County. Use code HSBROWARD at www.paw.com and part of the proceeds will go back to the Humane Society of Broward County.