5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Pet’s Birthday

from Kendle Frank

Our pets are always worth celebrating, and their birthdays are the perfect excuse to shower them with extra love and appreciation. Whether you know your pet’s exact birth date, choose to make up a date, or celebrate their ‘Gotcha Day’ or another anniversary, there are boundless ways to make their special day unforgettable.

1. Throw a Pawty

It’s time to don those party hats and get ready for a celebration to remember! Stuff a KONG or two (or three, or four!) and invite the entire pack over for the birthday bash of a lifetime. You can go as simple as a laid-back day of play and relaxation with a few of your pet’s favorite friends or go all out with a themed party complete with games, party favors, decorations, and delicious treats.

Need some inspiration? Here’s a few off-the-leash theme ideas to get the party started:

Paw-casso Art Party (Tip: Set up a paw/nose print station with non-toxic, pet-safe paints and canvases to display their beautiful, unique prints!)
The Wild West
Tropical Luau
The Great Barksby
Purrjama Party

2. Blow out the candles

What’s a birthday without cake? Make your pet’s special day that much sweeter with a tasty, pet-safe treat. Bonus points if it’s homemade!

We give this birthday carrot cake recipe four paws up. Not only is it downright delicious, but it’s a healthy twist on a classic cake recipe that your furry friend will love.

Oh, and don’t forget to sing happy birthday!

3. Pick the perfect present

Your pet’s birthday is the one day of the year (or one of many) you can shamelessly spoil them, so go all out with a gift that will make their tail wag! The most meaningful gift you can give is your time and attention, which is why interactive toys that encourage play and bonding are always a fan favorite. When picking the perfect present, consider your pet’s unique preferences and personality, as well as their age, size, and breed to find something they’ll truly cherish.

At KONG, we offer a wide selection of chews, treats, and toys that will keep your four-legged friend coming back again and again. To get you started, here are a few options that will make your birthday boy or girl want to pawty:

For the fetch fan: KONG SqueakAir Birthday Balls
For the softie: Scrunch Knots Fox
For the playful pup: Wubba Weaves
For the lovable senior: KONG Senior

4. Do something they love

Whether your pet enjoys cuddling on the couch, playing with toys, posing for the camera, or exploring the great outdoors, spend their birthday engaging in activities they truly enjoy. The power of sharing quality time creates lasting memories and helps deepen your bond. Not only does it make them feel loved, but it helps you feel better too! According to this 2018 study by the National Institutes of Health, simply spending time with companion animals reduces stress and loneliness and increases feelings of joy and social support. It’s the ultimate feel-good formula!

5. Dress up for the pup-arazzi

It’s time to say cheese! Capture the magic of their birthday every year with a fun photoshoot. Dress your pet in their birthday best—think bandanas, bows, flowers, and costumes. You can even spice it up with props and backdrops! You’ll look back at these photos and cherish the joy you shared for years to come.

No matter how you choose to celebrate your pet’s birthday, it’s all about showing them just how much they mean to you. Let us in on your fabulous birthday festivities by sharing your best photos using #KONGdog, #DogsNeedtoPlay, and #KONG. Here’s to more tail wags, purrs, and unforgettable birthday memories!