Does your pup have a big birthday coming up? We’ve got some fun ideas to help you celebrate! Whether you’re throwing a backyard bash with all their furends or planning a cozy celebration at home, here are some tips  on how to throw a dog birthday party that’s fun, memorable, and kind to the planet.

1. Pick a Fun Theme

The first step in planning a dog birthday party is choosing a theme. A theme helps tie everything together and sets the tone for your dog’s big day. It can be as simple as picking a color scheme or basing it around a holiday or a specific time of year (think Cinco De Mayo or pretty spring pastels). Or, get creative and choose a theme inspired by your favorite festival (Pupchella, anyone?). Some other fun ideas include:

• Need 4 Speed: Inspired by our furend Oliver the Haute Dog, who celebrated his fourth barkday with a racecar-themed bash. Consider setting up a “racecourse” in your backyard for the pups to dash through.
  

• Paw-ty in the Park: Think picnic vibes with blankets, toys, and plenty of space to sniff and run around. A kiddie pool makes the perfect playful (and cooling!) addition on a warm day.
  

• Doggie Beach Bash: Perfect for a sunny day! Set the scene with beach balls, frisbees, and dog-friendly birthday treats like watermelon and frozen berries to keep everyone refreshed and engaged.

Once you have your theme figured out, it’s time to design your invitations, decorations, party favors, outfits, and more to match!

2. Serve Homemade and Eco-Friendly Dog Treats

What’s a dog birthday party without some delicious, dog-safe treats? Whether you're a home baker or looking for some eco-friendly options, here are a few tasty dog birthday treat ideas that will have your pup’s tail wagging:

• Sustainable Dog Treats: For a party snack that’s both drool-worthy and kind to the planet, go for Chippin’s Celebration Sticks. Made with sustainable ingredients like Silver carp and pumpkin, these treats are easy to digest, free from common allergens like chicken and beef, and perfect for pups with sensitive tummies. Find them on Amazon.

• Pupsicles: Frozen treats made with peanut butter, banana, or pumpkin—perfect for hot days and always a hit at dog birthday parties.

• Pupcakes: Make your own dog-friendly birthday cakes, or grab a batch from a local pet bakery like Three Dog Barkery for a professionally made treat your dog will love.

• Frozen Banana Bites: Slice a ripe banana into bite-sized rounds, spread some peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!) on each slice, and freeze. For doggies allergic to peanuts, Chippin’s Dehydrated Cricket Daily Food works great as a nutritious peanut butter alternative!

3. Create DIY Party Favors

Don’t forget the party favors! These little goodies will show your appreciation to your guests and make your dog’s birthday even more memorable. Here are some, easy DIY ideas:

• Handmade Dog Toys: Make a simple t-shirt tug toy by braiding old t-shirt strips together, or create a fun sock ball by stuffing an old sock with fabric scraps and tying it into a knot.

• Reusable Bandanas: Create custom bandanas from fabric scraps or old clothing items. 

• Personalized Party Bags: Use paper bags or small fabric pouches to create personalized goodie bags for guests. Fill them with some of your homemade treats or small fun items.

4. Play Dog-Friendly Games

What’s a party without a little fun? These simple, DIY activities using common household items will keep your furry guests entertained and make your dog’s birthday even more memorable:

• DIY Snuffle Mat Game: Create a snuffle mat from old t-shirts or towels. Simply cut the fabric into strips and weave them into a mat where treats can be hidden for the dogs to sniff out. This encourages their natural instincts and is a great activity for all pups!

• Cardboard Box Obstacle Course: Use old cardboard boxes to create a fun agility course. Stack boxes for jumps or tunnels, and encourage your pups to navigate their way through the course.

• Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle: Use toilet paper rolls to create a fun treat puzzle. Simply place treats inside, fold the ends, and watch your pup figure out how to get to the snack!

5. Leave It to the Experts

Need an extra paw on how to throw a dog birthday party? Let a pro take the leash! Our friend Amanda created The Barkday Planner–a full-service dog event planning service that specializes in throwing unforgettable dog birthday parties. She is the brains behind Oliver’s Need 4 Speed barkday paw-ty!

Throwing your dog a birthday party is all about making memories and showing them just how much they mean to you. With a little creativity and some planet-friendly swaps  you can create a celebration that’s as unforgettable as it is sustainable.

And remember: If you'd rather leave the planning to the pros, Amanda from The Barkday Planner, has got you covered. She can bring your paw-ty vision to life with personalized themes and paw-some details.

No matter how you celebrate, your pup’s big day is the perfect excuse to have fun, get a little silly, and spoil them (sustainably).