Dog Dads are the best. Whether they’re a first-time pup parent, a long-time rescue dad, or that dad who used to say, “we don’t need a dog in this house,” … a dog dad is someone a dog can always depend on.

Finally, there’s a day to celebrate the special bond between a papa and his pup. Each year on the Saturday before Father’s Day, it’s all about the dog dads.

For the proud dog dad or anyone who knows a dog dad who deserves a day of fun with their pup, here are five of our favorite ways to celebrate Dog Dad’s Day this Saturday.

1. Hit up the hardware store.

Dog Dad Day can be a great time to catch up on home and garden projects, especially those that make it possible to spend more time with your pup outdoors this summer. For example, you can set up a garden packed with dog-friendly fruits and veggies, or build a doggy dig pit, tether pole, or dog house.

Some hardware stores are pet-friendly and do not mind leashed, well-behaved dogs, especially those with outdoor garden centers. If you’re unsure, call ahead before visiting with your pup.

While your dog might not be much help with a building or gardening, they’ll be happy to supervise while lying in the grass as dad toils away at a pup-related passion project.

2. Play ball.

Playing a game of catch is the quintessential Dad’s Day activity, and you don’t need a Golden Retriever to toss a ball around. Dogs of any breed, age, and size can learn to fetch with plenty of positive reinforcement. Take care with tennis balls, as they have rough texture that can wear down teeth, and are often too heavy for smaller dogs. Nonabrasive tennis balls for dogs are perfect for fetching the day away.

3. Fire up the grill.

Cookouts aren’t just for Father’s Day - you can fire up the grill a day early to celebrate Dog Dad Day with your best bud. Most dogs can stomach a few bites of unseasoned, lean grilled meat like chicken breast, turkey burger, or flank steak, just take care if your dog has a sensitive stomach, and make sure to remove any bone or fat trimmings before serving.

4. Go outside.

Why not celebrate Dog Dad’s Day at your favorite dog-friendly beach or park? Whether dad loves bird-watching, fishing, kite-flying, hiking, or just being in tune with nature with the one he loves, being outdoors is what Dog Dad’s Day is all about. With flea and tick prevention, you and your pup can enjoy a full day of outdoor activities. Pack a picnic, bring a ball or toy to play fetch, keep your camera close for those special Dad-and-his-Dog photo ops.

5. Watch a Dog Dad’s Day movie.

The perfect ending to the best dog dad’s day ever? A movie and cuddles on the couch, of course! There’s Turner and Hooch (1989) for dads that love the classics, Dog (2022) is a recent dog-dad fave. A few more options are I Am Legend (2007), Marley & Me (2008), and Hachi (2009) - all guaranteed to make you hug your pup a little tighter on Dog Dad’s Day night.

VISION

Every pet deserves to live a long, happy, healthy life.