5 fun ways to celebrate National Dog Day with your ride-or-die pup
Easy ideas for spoiled dogs, happy humans and less fur-covered laundry.

National Dog Day is the perfect excuse to spoil your pooch.
August 26 is National Dog Day — the perfect excuse to treat your pet like the VIP (very important pup) they truly are.
Whether you’re planning matching outfits or just want an excuse to eat snacks on the couch with your four-legged bestie, here are five ways to turn National Dog Day into a full-blown "paw-ty":
Take them somewhere their nose hasn't been yet
Go on an olfactory adventure with your best bud. Brenda Timmermans | Pexels
Dogs don't need a fancy itinerary; they just need new smells to investigate. Instead of doing the same old loop around the block, find a trail, a beach or even a different neighbourhood to explore. Watching them discover a new favourite sniff spot is as rewarding as any human day trip.
Give their stuff a deep clean so cuddle time isn't hairy
Nothing beats a freshly cleaned doggie bed. Courtesy of Maytag Canada
Just like your dog depends on you for belly rubs, walks and treats, you can depend on Maytag to keep up with all the mess that comes with being a devoted pet parent. Dog beds, blankets and toys collect more fur than your vacuum can handle.
A quick wash in a machine designed for pet parents, like the Maytag® Pet Pro Laundry System, removes stubborn hair so you can snuggle without turning your black hoodie into a golden retriever costume. When it comes to keeping up with your furry roommate, dependability matters.
Cook up a snack that says 'I love you this much'
Show your love by baking your pet something special. Ta Dac Nguyen | Unsplash
Sure, store-bought biscuits get the job done, but making homemade treats feels like a whole event. Think frozen peanut butter popsicles, bite-sized banana cookies or a pet-safe "pupcake." It's cute, it's tasty and you'll officially cement your status as Favourite Human Ever.
Throw a backyard 'paw-ty' (it's chaos, but worth it)
Your dog will love a play date with all their friends. Eliana Costa | Unsplash
Invite a few of your dog's closest pals, set up a splash pool or some makeshift agility obstacles, toss a few tennis balls and let the zoomies commence. It'll be loud, muddy, and probably involve a lot of drool, but the pure joy on their faces will make it legendary.
Treat your pup to a spa day at home
A little pampering goes a long way. Ron Lach | Pexels
After a day of adventures, your dog deserves some pampering. Set up a cozy space with their favourite blanket and indulge them with a gentle brushing session to strengthen your bond.
And any fur that ends up on blankets, towels, or your clothes? You can trust your Maytag® Pet Pro Laundry System to lift it away, leaving everything clean and ready for more cuddles.
Plus, an even more powerful Maytag® Pet Pro laundry pair is dropping this September, featuring new innovations including Extra Power, Auto Sensing and smart features, so keeping up with your four-legged roommate is about to get even easier.
Until then, you're free to focus on the belly rubs, treat baking and all-day cuddles, because you can depend on Maytag to handle the messy part. Check out the current Pet Pro lineup at maytag.ca/pets.