Dog birthday parties
Have you ever celebrated your dog’s birthday? If you answered yes, you’re definitely not alone! I recently polled the followers on my photography page and my dog’s Instagram and of the 70 responses, SIXTY-TWO people had either celebrated at home or had a full blown birthday party for their dog.
That’s a whopping 88% of respondents!
Now admittedly it’s already a biased sample group – if you’re following a dog photographer or a bulldog on Facebook/Instagram there’s a good chance you’re more extra about your dog than the average person, however, it’s still an impressive statistic!
So what does a dog birthday celebration actually look like?
From what my followers shared, celebrations can range from a pupcake at home to full-on parties with balloons, themed decorations, dog-safe cakes, party hats, gift bags, and both canine and human guests! Some people go the extra mile with outfits and professional photoshoots (👋 hi, that’s where I come in).
Why Celebrate?
For most of us, our dogs aren’t just pets — they’re family. Celebrating their birthday is just another way to say “we love you,” and honestly, it's an excuse for a bit of joy and silliness in our lives. Plus, if you’re on the Gold Coast like me, it’s a perfect excuse to enjoy one of the many beautiful dog-friendly parks or beaches with your dog, your friends, and your camera.
Pro Tip: Capture the Chaos
Whether it’s their first birthday or their tenth, your dog’s birthday party is the perfect time to grab some keepsake photos. That icing-on-the-nose moment? The tail-wagging blur when they spot the cake? Those are memories worth keeping. If you’re throwing a party, make sure someone’s snapping pics (or better yet — hire a pro 😉).
Easy Ideas for a Dog Birthday
If you're thinking of celebrating your dog’s next birthday, but don’t want to go full Hollywood, here are a few low-key ideas:
A beach morning and a special treat from the pet bakery.
A new toy and some extra cuddles.
A DIY dog cake (there are loads of recipes online).
A mini photoshoot with your phone at home or at your favourite dog-friendly park.
EXTRA Ideas for a Dog Birthday
If you're thinking of celebrating your dog’s next birthday, and like me, DO want to go full Hollywood, here are a few ideas that have been a hit at Rufus’ birthday parties:
Either a homemade carrot/peanut butter/banana cake with yoghurt frosting, OR go all out and order a stunning cake from a pet bakery like Wongi Cakes in Upper Coomera!
A toy/treat pinata – either buy a kids pinata and empty out the lollies and refill with your own items, or simply get a small box, pop everything and lightly tape it closed for them to chew open.
A DIY dog treats (there are loads of recipes online). Think pupcakes, fruit platters and meats.
A professional cake smash photoshoot the party!
Doggy bags – throw a tennis ball, a party hat and a collection of treats into a party bag for each of your guests.
Two words: BALL 👏🏻 PIT 👏🏻
Don’t forget a group photo of all the guests!
Paw print guest book – you can order a blank page guest book of amazon for under $10 and an a couple of paw print ink pad kits for around the same price and boom! A guest book each doggy friend can “sign”.
Some cookies or goodies for the humans to snack on as well
Let’s Hear It!
Have you thrown a party for your dog? I’d love to hear what you did – comment below or tag me in your celebration pics. I’m always looking for inspiration and I love seeing people be as ridiculously over the top about their pets as I am!