National Make a Dog’s Day

National Make a Dog’s Day, observed on October 22, is a heartfelt occasion dedicated to celebrating the joy, loyalty, and companionship dogs bring to our lives. It also shines a special spotlight on pets who may be overlooked at shelters, including senior dogs, dogs with disabilities, and those who have been waiting a long time for a loving home.

You can mark the day by giving your dog extra attention, taking them on a favorite walk, sharing a healthy treat, or supporting a local animal shelter or rescue organization. For those ready to welcome a new companion, considering an often-overlooked dog can be a meaningful way to make October 22 truly special—while giving a deserving animal the loving home they’ve been hoping for.

National Make a Dog’s Day is observed on **October 22**. The observance was created as part of Subaru of America’s “Make A Dog’s Day” campaign, which encourages people to recognize the companionship dogs provide and to take positive action for animals in need. The campaign places particular emphasis on shelter dogs that may be overlooked by potential adopters, including older dogs, dogs with disabilities, and animals requiring extra care.

The initiative developed from Subaru’s long-running association with animal welfare and pet adoption. Through partnerships with animal shelters and rescue organizations, the campaign has promoted adoption events, fundraising, supply donations, and opportunities for people to support dogs awaiting permanent homes. Rather than presenting the day only as a celebration of household pets, its central purpose is to draw attention to shelter animals whose age, medical needs, appearance, or behavior may make adoption more difficult.

Over time, National Make a Dog’s Day has evolved into a broader call for practical kindness. People may mark October 22 by adopting or fostering a dog, volunteering at a shelter, donating food or veterinary supplies, helping with transport, or simply giving their own dog additional attention and exercise. The observance also encourages prospective adopters to look beyond the most immediately appealing animals and to consider the rewards and responsibilities of welcoming a “less adoptable” dog into a home.

Culturally, the day reflects the prominent role dogs play in family life while also highlighting the continuing challenges faced by animal shelters. Its message connects affection for pets with responsible action: dogs should be treated as companions deserving care, patience, and protection, not as temporary possessions. By linking October 22 with adoption and shelter support, National Make a Dog’s Day has helped frame an ordinary act of kindness toward a dog as part of a wider effort to improve animal welfare.