Annual observance

National Puppy Day

March 23 Pets / Animals Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

National Puppy Day, celebrated annually on March 23rd, is a heartwarming occasion dedicated to the unconditional love and joy puppies bring into our lives. Beyond celebrating these adorable young canines, the day primarily aims to raise awareness about the plight of puppies in puppy mills, promote the adoption of puppies from shelters and rescue organizations, and educate the public on the importance of responsible pet ownership. It encourages people to provide a loving and safe environment for puppies, highlighting the joy and responsibility of having a furry family member.

Observed each year on March 23, National Puppy Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Puppy Day, observed on March 23, emphasizes the joy and companionship that puppies bring while raising awareness about the harsh realities of puppy mills. This day encourages the adoption of shelter puppies and promotes responsible pet ownership, highlighting the importance of providing loving homes for these vulnerable animals.

Origin and story

National Puppy Day was founded in 2007 by celebrity pet and family lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, who also established National Dog Day and National Cat Day.

Puppies are born blind and deaf, with their eyes and ear canals closed, and rely completely on their mother for survival during their first few weeks.

Quick facts

  • DateMarch 23
  • TypePets / Animals
  • Great forPet parents, Shelters, Veterinarians

Also on this date

Ways to Celebrate National Puppy Day

National Puppy Day celebrates puppies and raises awareness about responsible pet ownership and adoption.

Celebrate Puppies

  • Spend time with a puppy
  • Share puppy photos
  • Learn about puppy care

Learn About Puppy Care & Adoption

Support Animal Welfare

  • Consider adopting or fostering
  • Support shelters and rescues
  • Promote responsible breeding

Did You Know?

Early socialization is crucial for puppies and helps shape their behavior as adult dogs.

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Fun facts

  • National Puppy Day was founded in 2007 by celebrity pet and family lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, who also established National Dog Day and National Cat Day.
  • Puppies are born blind and deaf, with their eyes and ear canals closed, and rely completely on their mother for survival during their first few weeks.
  • Much like a human fingerprint, a puppy's nose print is unique, meaning no two puppies have identical nose prints.
  • The average puppy will sleep for up to 18-20 hours a day, allowing them to grow and develop properly.
  • Puppies start to walk at about three weeks old, and that is when their personalities begin to show.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Puppy Day?
It is observed on March 23 each year.
What is National Puppy Day?
National Puppy Day, celebrated annually on March 23rd, is a heartwarming occasion dedicated to the unconditional love and joy puppies bring into our lives. Beyond celebrating these adorable young canines, the day primarily aims to raise awareness about the plight of puppies in puppy mills, promote the adoption of puppies from shelters and rescue organizations, and educate the public on the importance of responsible pet ownership. It encourages people to provide a loving and safe environment for puppies, highlighting the joy and responsibility of having a furry family member.
How do people celebrate National Puppy Day?
Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the pets / animals vibe and make it a mini tradition.

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