Our guide to National Dog Day 2019, including the best dog walks to celebrate.
What is and when is National Dog Day?
Taking place on Monday 26th August 2019, National Dog Day aims to raise awareness and save thousands of dogs suffering from neglect.
Created by pet expert, Colleen Paige, National Dog Day takes place annually on 26th August to mark the day her family first adopted a rescue dog.
Dogs are amazing, courageous, sensitive and sentient beings that deserve compassion and respect. Please consider bringing what was once considered "unwanted love", into your heart and home on National Dog Day!"
Best dog walks in Britain
Did someone say walkies? Why not celebrate with your dog by taking them on one of these wonderful dog-friendly walks this weekend.
Ilam and Dove Dale, Staffordshire and Derbyshire
Explore Dove Dale and its surrounding countryside with a three-hour walk, starting at the pretty village of Ilam.
Long Rock Beach, Cornwall
Does your dog enjoy playing on the beach? Why not take a stroll along the Long Rock Beach. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Lizard and Penzance harbour whilst your dog splashes around in the shallow waters. Unusually, this beach is open to dogs all year round, however the beach reduces greatly at high tide and can be dangerous in stormy weather. www.walkiees.co.uk/walks/view/long-rock
Lochore Meadows, Fife
Celebrate national dog day at the edge of Loch Ore. The vast woodlands and grasslands surround the loch making the area a perfect picturesque walkway. Your dog can enjoy a splash in the loch and nearby ponds. The easy path is accessible for all to enjoy. www.walkiees.co.uk/walks/view/lochore-meadows
Sutton Bank, North Yorkshire
Discover dramatic views, a white horse, a hidden lake and deep woodland on the edge of the North York Moors National Park.
The Doone Valley, North Devon
Enjoy the spectacular views of the Doone Valley. The 5 ½ mile circular walk can be strenuous at times but the view is definitely worth it. Take a break at the Blue Ball Inn for a refreshing drink. Dogs are of course welcome to have a well-deserved rest too. www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/240/
Derwentwater, Lake District
Discover Derwentwater from the shores with this 8-mile walk. Stretching from the market town of Keswick to the one of the Lake Districts finest lakes, Derwentwater. Explore the magnificent scenery and wildlife whilst taking the easy stroll along the waters edge. The shallow shores are great for paddling pups. www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Stonebarrow Hill and Golden Gap, Dorset
Adventure along the Jurassic Coast and enjoy a wonderful 2-mile walk along an area of outstanding natural beauty. Enjoy coastal paths and views of the beautiful Jurassic Coast. Finish the walk by enjoying Charmouth’s East Beach, brilliant for dogs and humans alike. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/golden-cap
Llanberis Path, Snowdonia
This challenging walk showcases the incredible views of the Welsh Valleys. Whilst climbing the side of Snowdon beware of the steep cliffs and rugged surfaces. Half way up the cafe will provide a welcome rest for walkers and friendly dogs. At the summit of the Llanberis Path enjoy a spectacular view of the Welsh countryside. www.walkiees.co.uk/walks/view/llanberis-path-snowdon
The Seven Sisters, South Downs
Discover the South Downs by strolling along the Seven Sisters. Enjoy views of the beautiful white cliffs and the incredible views of the English Channel. The spectacular rolling hills are perfect for both dogs and dog walkers a like. Along the path attractive villages and pubs can be perfect for a pit stop. www.nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way
Dog-friendly places to stay
Here is a selection of great dog-friendly places to stay in the UK.
Dominoes, Devon
Built into the hillside in the South Hams village of Stoke Gabriel, the retro-modern Dominoes features original pine ceilings and a south facing wall of glass, giving the lounge and upstairs bedrooms panoramic views of water, wildlife and the woodland beyond. The garden is fenced and secure making it very dog-friendly, there’s a tap in the patio area and a doggy bath, shampoo and towels are provided. The holiday house is a great base for exploring South Devon and has lock up facilities to store kayaks and bikes. www.premiercottages.co.uk.
Headswood on Wall, Carlisle, Cumbria
A luxury glampsite in a quiet corner of rural Cumbria, with plenty of walks nearby where four-legged friends can run wild. There’s direct access to the Hadrian’s Wall Path, which follows the World Heritage Site for 84 miles. Five minutes’ drive from the little market town of Brampton, and a short drive from three Roman forts – Housesteads, Birdoswald and Vindolanda – there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. The well-equipped pods at Headswood on Wall each feature ensuite bathrooms and private hot tubs, comfy double beds and kitchens. Minimum stay may be required. Pitchup.com
Wheeldon Trees Farm Holidays Cottages, Derbyshire
Set in the dramatic scenery of the Peak District National Park, dog-friendly Wheeldon Trees Farm offers nine award winning cottages plus a communal games room. There are self-guided dog walks from the door and two dog-friendly pubs nearby. Pets are treated like royalty with toys, towels, bowls, mats, leads, holiday tags, waste bags, an exercise paddock and even a doggie hairdryer. www.premiercottages.co.uk
Dog health and safety
Please remember to pick up after your dog and keep them on the lead near steep cliff edges and near livestock.
See our dog walking guide: expert training tips to help your dog behave
How to make healthy dog treats for your pet
Our easy recipe to make healthy and tasty doggy treats.
Don't have a dog?
There are many ways to celebrate National Dog Day, such as sponsoring a Guide Dog puppy or treating a rescue dog to a new toy. Animal rescue centres often need volunteers, so if you have time to spare, you could even help walk and groom the dogs.