Dog Life

Why Is August National Dog Month?

Where Dogust came from, why it lands in August, and simple ways to celebrate your dog all month.

By Updated 3 min read
Why Is August National Dog Month? – Freezbone

August is not just about sunshine and ice cream. It is officially National Dog Month, nicknamed "Dogust" by dog lovers everywhere, and it is a whole month of celebrating the loyal companions who make our lives better.

But why August? Let's dig in (pun intended), and look at a few easy ways to make this Dogust count.

August is National Dog Month, or Dogust. It celebrates the bond between people and dogs, encourages adoption and highlights good canine care. August fits because it is peak summer for outdoor fun, a busy time for shelters, and the run-up to fall routines.

What is Dogust?

Dogust is the nickname for National Dog Month, a playful mashup of "dog" and "August." It has become a rallying cry for pet parents, brands and shelters alike, and a good excuse to give your dog a little extra attention.

How did National Dog Month begin?

National Dog Month is a fairly new addition to the pet calendar. It was created to recognize the deep bond between people and dogs, to encourage adoption and to highlight the importance of canine care.

Aug 1is also celebrated as the Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs: a special day for every rescue pup whose real birthday is unknown.

Why is National Dog Month in August?

Why not May or November? August was picked for a few simple, very dog-friendly reasons.

Summer vibes

August is peak summer, perfect for extra-long walks, park trips and all the outdoor fun dogs crave.

Freezbone tip

Keep your pup cool on the go. Freeze their Freezbone overnight and bring it to the park for a refreshing, long-lasting treat during summer adventures.

FreezTree mental stimulation chew toy

Shelter awareness

Many shelters see a rise in adoptions and animal intakes during summer. That makes August the perfect time to encourage "adopt, don't shop," raise awareness for rescues and support adoption drives, especially since it is also Clear the Shelters Month.

Thinking about adopting? Our post on National Adopt a Dog Month is a good next read.

Back-to-school prep

As families get ready for fall routines, August is a reminder to check in on your pup's needs: training, health and enrichment.

Why does Dogust matter for every dog parent?

Our dogs do more than keep us company. They help us de-stress, get us moving and fill our homes with love (and maybe a little chaos). Dogust is your cue to:

  • Pamper your pup with extra treats, toys and playtime.
  • Check on their health: schedule vet visits, vaccinations or a dental checkup.
  • Support local shelters through donations or volunteering.
  • Brush up on enrichment ideas. Our Freezbone treat planner has a full week of easy ones.

Freezbone fillable dog feeder

How can you celebrate Dogust?

A few ways to make the month pawsome:

  • Try a new park or hiking trail together.
  • Organize a "pup picnic" or a doggy playdate.
  • Spoil your dog with frozen enrichment toys.
  • Share your favorite dog moments online with #Dogust or #NationalDogMonth, and tag @thefreezbone on Instagram.

Not sure what your dog would love most? Take our dog personality quiz for a toy or treat recommendation. For more ideas, see 8 ways to show your dog appreciation, and get summer health answers in your top Dogust questions answered by a vet.

Dogust only comes once a year

Every dog deserves a month dedicated just to them, so make this one count. A frozen treat in an enrichment feeder is an easy way to beat the heat, fight boredom and turn an ordinary August day into a small celebration.

Frequently asked questions

  • National Dog Month is celebrated every August. Dog lovers call it Dogust.

  • Dogust is a playful mashup of "dog" and "August," and it has become the nickname for National Dog Month among pet parents, brands and shelters.

  • August 1 is celebrated as the Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs, a special day for rescue pups whose real birthdays are unknown.

  • August is peak summer, perfect for outdoor fun. It is also a busy time for shelters and Clear the Shelters Month, and a natural moment to check on training, health and enrichment before fall routines start.

  • Try a new park or trail, organize a pup picnic or playdate, spoil your dog with frozen enrichment toys, book a health check, support a local shelter, and share your favorite dog moments online.

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Written by Freezbone Team

We make freezable, refillable chew toys in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and test every fill and routine on our own dogs before we write about it.

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