12 Ways to Pamper Your Pup on National Dog Day
Every dog has its day.
If you didn’t already know, National Dog Day is this Sunday, Aug. 26. In other words, your furry friend is wondering why you didn’t plan him a party. Don’t worry — he said he’d settle for some pampering from his favorite human. Need some ideas? Read on to see which ones best suit your pooch.
1: Make homemade treats.
![Frozen Dog Treats, 3 Ways](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/027/0271/0271722.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1660758108659.webp)
Treats are a sure way to please almost any pup.
10 More Dog Treat Recipes
See All Photos2: Update an old bed.
![DIY Farmhouse-Style Dog Bed Cover Washable Pet Bed Cover](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2016/11/17/0/original_Marian-Parsons-dog-bed-beauty-horiz2.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1479398469707.webp)
Marian Parsons, Mustard Seed Interiors
Is Fido’s favorite sleeping spot looking a bit tattered? Learn how to make a DIY dog bed with our easy-to-follow instructions.
13 More DIY Dog Beds
See All Photos3: Go for a walk.
![Travel with dogs Travel with dogs](http://travel.home.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/travel/fullrights/2016/12/30/CI_DogVacay-Woman-Dog-Travel.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1491593308009.webp)
DogVacay.com
Most dogs love a leisurely stroll. It not only provides exercise but also creates a bonding experience between pet and owner.
4: Organize all the doggy things.
![DIY Pet Storage Station](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/025/0254/0254208.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1661782500938.webp)
Though this might not instantly excite your four-legged friend, it will benefit them in the long run. Organization means easier access to all their favorite treats and toys.
5: Build a doghouse.
![Finishing touches Finishing touches](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/grdn/fullset/2014/10/6/0/Original_doghouse14.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.822.85.suffix/1452845098265.webp)
Photo by Sam Henderson
Does your pup spend a lot of time outdoors? Make a doghouse to offer shade, warmth and protection from the elements.
6: Make a bow tie.
![No-Sew Dog Accessories](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/023/0233/0233687.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1660752925482.webp)
Diva dogs, this one’s for you! Some pets just need a little glamour in their lives.
7: Go for a swim.
![Wet Dog in Pool Dog in pool](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2016/6/13/0/iStock_Dog-in-Pool_92342795_XLARGE.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1465828318891.webp)
©iStockphoto.com/Dorottya_Mathe
This is totally dependent on your dog. For instance, my four-legged friend does not appreciate pool days, but her doggy BFF swims any chance he gets.
8: Make a new toy.
![Branch Out: DIY Dog Toy Learn how to sew this fabric log toy for your favorite furry pal.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/grdn/fullset/2015/4/17/0/Original_hgtv-mcaughey-dogtoy-d9e962440000.JPG.rend.hgtvcom.616.862.85.suffix/1452971689549.webp)
Photo by Melissa Caughey
Sew a DIY fabric log with our step-by-step tutorial. Your furry pal will know the new toy was stitched with love.
9: Massage or brush him.
![Woman Grooming her Dog Woman Grooming her Dog in Living Room](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/9/17/0/ts-82548948_woman-dog-living-room-floor_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400951155394.webp)
That’s right — I’m suggesting a doggy massage. Before you deem me a crazy dog lady, (OK fine, I agree.) know that a massage can calm your dog’s nerves, prevent injury and relieve soreness or stiffness. Totally worth it! But if Fido’s not feeling it, try giving a good brushing instead.
10: Paint a watercolor pup portrait.
![DIY Watercolor Pet Portraits](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/026/0266/0266256.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1661787759352.webp)
I’d like to think my pooch would appreciate a portrait of herself, but it’s up for debate. Give this DIY a try, and see what your pup thinks.
11: Make a new collar.
![Rambo the Dog With Red Collar Puppy Pic](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2012/5/29/3/HPPETS12H_Posh-Pets-Rambo-3004_4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400972914746.webp)
Is it time for a new collar? Make one with your favorite fabric.
12: Go to the dog park.
![Miami Dog Park Dog Runs](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/grdn/fullset/2014/11/2/0/CI_ci-xgrass-dog-runs-5.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1452846046033.webp)
Image Courtesy of XGrass
For a social dog, there’s no place like the dog park. Take them for some uninterrupted playtime with their fellow canines.
Drool-Worthy Digs Designed Especially for Dogs
See All PhotosSpaces designed for playful paws, wagging tails and sweet, slobbery kisses.