National Dog Biscuit Day

National Dog Biscuit Day is celebrated every year on February 23. Also known as International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, the occasion encourages pet owners to recognize the simple joy a crunchy treat brings to their dogs. It serves as a reminder of the role treats play in positive reinforcement training and the long-standing history of the bond between humans and their domesticated companions.

History of National Dog Biscuit Day

The origins of the modern dog biscuit trace back to 1860, when American electrician James Spratt was visiting London. After observing stray dogs at the shipyards scavenging for “hardtack”—the tough, dry biscuits eaten by sailors—Spratt realized there was a market for a specifically formulated pet snack. He subsequently developed the “Meat Fibrine Dog Cake,” a mixture of wheat, beetroot, vegetables, and beef blood. These first commercial biscuits were marketed heavily to the English gentry and laid the foundation for the global pet food industry.

While Spratt’s original cakes were square, the iconic bone shape did not appear until 1907. Carleton Ellis, an organic chemist, noticed his dog was uninterested in the round biscuits he had developed; on a whim, he shaped the dough like a bone to appeal to a dog’s natural instincts. This marketing masterstroke led to the creation of the “Milk-Bone” brand, which was later purchased by the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) in 1931. National Dog Biscuit Day emerged in the early 2000s as an informal way for enthusiasts to celebrate these innovations and the evolution of pet nutrition.

Why is National Dog Biscuit Day important?

This day is significant because it highlights the importance of using high-quality rewards in behavioral training. Dog biscuits are essential tools for positive reinforcement, allowing owners to clearly communicate and reward desirable actions like sitting or staying. By celebrating the “biscuit,” the holiday promotes the science of animal learning and encourages owners to move away from punitive training methods in favor of reward-based systems that strengthen the human-canine bond.

The observance also serves as a check-in for pet health and dental hygiene. Many modern biscuits are formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through the mechanical action of chewing. The day provides an opportunity for owners to evaluate the ingredients in their pets’ snacks, advocating for grain-free or nutrient-dense options that avoid empty fillers and artificial preservatives. Furthermore, the holiday raises awareness for the “10% rule,” reminding owners that treats should only account for a small portion of a dog’s daily caloric intake to prevent obesity.

• Hard biscuits can help keep a dog’s teeth clean by scraping away tartar.
• Treats are the primary motivator used by professional trainers for service dog preparation.
• The holiday supports local pet bakeries and independent pet supply stores.
• Using biscuits for “scent work” provides essential mental stimulation for high-energy breeds.
• Sharing a treat creates a moment of focused interaction and affection between pet and owner.

How to Celebrate National Dog Biscuit Day

Participating in this day can be as simple as giving your dog their favorite store-bought snack or as involved as baking a fresh batch at home. Homemade biscuits allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are safe for dogs with sensitive stomachs or specific allergies. Popular DIY recipes often include dog-safe staples like pumpkin puree, unsweetened peanut butter, and oat flour. Once baked, these treats can be used for a backyard scavenger hunt, where you hide pieces for your dog to find using their nose.

Many people choose to look beyond their own pets on this day by supporting local animal shelters. Donating a box of biscuits or a bag of high-quality treats to a rescue organization can brighten the day of dogs waiting for their forever homes. You can also host a “doggy play date” where neighborhood pets can sample different flavors of gourmet biscuits. Sharing a photo of your dog enjoying their treat on social media with the holiday hashtag is a common way to spread awareness about the joy and benefits of responsible treating.

• Bake a batch of three-ingredient peanut butter biscuits for your pet.
• Donate an unopened bag of premium treats to a local animal rescue center.
• Use small biscuit pieces to teach your dog a brand-new trick or command.
• Set up a “treat puzzle” or snuffle mat to engage your dog’s foraging instincts.
• Visit a local pet boutique to pick out a unique, artisanal dog biscuit.

National Dog Biscuit Day Dates Table