Dog birthday party ideas

We think our furry friends should be celebrated every day. But if you’ve got an extra special day coming up, you’ll need some good dog birthday party ideas. Whether it involves a full-blown birthday bash (with party games, goodie bags, and dog treats) or a low-key day doing everything your dog loves and more, we’ve got some great ideas up our sleeves. Get ready to celebrate the paw-ty of the year!

Dog birthday party invitations

There ain’t no party like a dog birthday party. And trust us, no one will want to miss out on what you’ve got in store for your best pal. But before everyone starts donning their party hats, you’ve got invitations to send out.

You can find super-cute party invitations online, or get crafty with your pooch at home (and make sure your buddy doesn’t forget to “paw” on the dotted line). This is the event of the year, so invite your nearest, dearest, and all their four-legged friends too. Don’t forget about your favourite dog sitter either!

Birthday cake for dogs

It’s not a party if there isn’t cake, and even though your friend may be of the furry persuasion, there are loads of dog birthday cakes for them (or you) to choose from.

Whether you’re lucky enough to live in the vicinity of a dog bakery or you can order from one online, you’ll find party hampers filled with doggy-approved pupcakes, doughnuts and biscuits that will be enough to make you drool. Or if you’re looking to release your dog-mestic goddess, whip up a bone-shaped birthday cake for your pooch, certified to make them feel paw-some. 

Dog birthday treats

If a birthday cake for dogs isn’t enough, fill those hungry bellies with some fun dog treats. Peanut butter straight from the jar is always a crowd-pleaser (just make sure it’s xylitol-free!), and dog-friendly ice cream is the ultimate treat on a summer’s day.

If you want to bake something with love, grab a bone-shaped cookie cutter and try out some of our quick and easy recipes for homemade peanut butter dog treats. Remember that while it can be difficult to keep an eye on what our pooches are gobbling up half the time, always check with pet parents before handing out your dog treats.  

Where to have a birthday party for dogs

Whether you’re throwing a big birthday bash, or just having a little get-together, be sure to celebrate their special day in a dog-friendly location. Dog birthday parties “plein-air” really take the (dog) biscuit, so celebrating in a big garden will give you plenty of space for zoomies and party games.

If you haven’t got the space at home, head to a dog park, or better still, a dog-friendly beach! Wherever you go, make sure you’ve got lots of water bowls and poo bags (hopefully just for the doggies). And remember that if you're having a shindig in a public space you may not be able to go ALL out, but these party animals will still have a whale of a time. 

Activities at a birthday party for dogs 

Our four-legged friends are pretty happy sniffing butts and having a runaround, but you still might want to have some activities up your sleeve. Get those tippy toes dancing by playing dog-friendly party games like tug of war, paw painting or puzzle games. Better yet, set up your own agility course and let your pooch pals show off their skills.

You know we mentioned water bowls earlier? Well, water’s great for drinking, but even better for playing in. (Most) doggies will go bananas for a splash around in some water - a hose or a children’s paddling pool (without the kids) will keep tails wagging for hours.

Pick a theme for your dog’s birthday party 

Still looking for ideas for a dog birthday party? Picking a party theme will make the puppy party easier to organise and it will look great in pictures.

Celebrating your dog’s first birthday party? Make them feel special with number one balloons and puppy dog treats served in little dog bowls. Is their big day close to Halloween? Get into the spooky theme with decorated pumpkins and doggy skeletons.

Decorations for your dog’s birthday party 

Once you’ve got your theme, jazz the place up with party decorations from Etsy and Amazon - or have a go at crafting your own banners and party hats.

Making your dog’s birthday party the best day ever is one thing, having the pics to prove it is another! Getting a dog photo booth will keep those memories alive for years to come and their goofy faces make a great addition to their goodie bags. If a photo booth is a bit OTT, just be sure to snap lots of pics of your dog’s special day!

We know our dog birthday party ideas sound like fun, but at the end of the day, do what’s best for your pooch. If your best bud isn’t in the mood for polishing his social skills, have a birthday party for your dog with just the two of you. The guest list doesn’t have to be miles long to show your furry friend you care, and they might be just as happy going on a long walk with their loved ones. If you do decide to invite other doggies to your dog’s birthday party make sure they’re all going to get along by introducing them to each other beforehand.