How to pamper your dog for National Love Your Pet Day

National Love Your Pet Day lands on February 20th, and if you’re anything like us, you don’t need a calendar reminder to adore your doggo.

But we do love an excuse to slow down, soak up some quality time, and show our furry family members a little extra love.

Love for your doggo can show up in everyday moments. The care you put into their routine. The attention you give them when life gets busy. And yes, this includes what goes into their bowl.

So this National Love Your Pet Day, let’s choose meaningful ways to pamper your pup — joyful in the moment and kind to their long-term wellbeing.

Love looks like showing up

Dogs don’t need extravagant gestures. They don’t really care about fancy presents. What they do care about is you.

To your dog, love looks like you slowing down on a walk so they can sniff every blade of grass. It’s you throwing the ball one more time when your arm’s already tired. It’s choosing to sit on the floor with them instead of scrolling on your phone.

Dogs live completely in the moment, and all they really want in that moment is to be with their favourite human. That’s you. 

A busy brain is a happy dog

A bored dog is a stressed dog, and one of the most loving things you can do is keep their brain engaged.

Enrichment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; it just needs to tap into your dog’s natural instincts.

Easy enrichment ideas to try at home

• Scavenger hunts: Hide treats around the house or backyard and let your dog sniff them out
  

• Chew time: Long-lasting chews help satisfy the natural urge to gnaw and relax
  

• DIY boredom busters: Wrap treats in a towel and let them work it out
  

• Training games: A few minutes of positive reinforcement goes a long way

Chewing, sniffing, and problem-solving are deeply calming for dogs, especially for anxious pups or older dogs who don’t need intense exercise.

Bring the dog spa vibes home

A little at-home pampering can go a long way. Think less ‘luxury spa’ and more comfort, care and calm. Your dog doesn’t need scented candles or a fluffy robe — they just need to feel relaxed, safe and looked after.

Dog spa ideas (WAG-style)

• A gentle brush to remove loose fur and stimulate circulation
  

• A warm bath if they need it (bonus points for lots of praise)
  

• Nail trims to keep them comfy and zooming
  

• A cosy post-bath nap spot with their favourite blanket
  

• Some natural paw balm to nourish scaly paws

For older dogs, these moments are especially meaningful. Gentle touch, routine care and quiet bonding time can help support mobility, comfort and confidence as they age.

Treats can be indulgent and good for them

Let’s talk treats, because pampering usually involves snacks.

Indulgence doesn’t have to mean ‘junk’ for your doggo. The best treats are the ones they love to chomp down on — and that give you total peace of mind about what’s inside.

When you choose healthy dog treats made from real, single ingredients, you’re not just rewarding your dog; you’re also nourishing them.

According to the doggos, these treats are a big yes:

• Bully Sticks – A long-lasting, single-ingredient chew that keeps jaws busy and tails wagging, perfect for dogs who love a proper gnaw.
  

• Kangaroo Tendons – Naturally tough and packed with flavour, these Aussie-sourced chews are great for enrichment and satisfying your dog’s instinct to chew.
  

• Beef Jerky – A simple, high-protein favourite made from real beef, ideal for rewarding good behaviour or just because.
  

• Insect-based Jerky – A planet-friendly, protein-rich treat that’s gentle on tummies and big on flavour. 

Savour the moment together

One of our favourite ways to pamper dogs is to turn everyday moments into something special.

Instead of handing over a treat and moving on, try:

• Using treats as part of a game
  

• Pairing treats with training or enrichment
  

• Offering a long-lasting chew during quiet time
  

• Sharing the moment — praise, eye contact, connection

Dogs don’t just love the food, they love the ritual. It’s the anticipation, the routine, and that moment of connection when they know something good is coming their way. Treat time isn’t just about eating; it’s about trust, attention and sharing a little moment together. 

Budget-friendly pampering (because you don’t have to spend lots to show that you care)

Pampering your furry bestie doesn’t have to cost a fortune. 

Some of the most meaningful things you can do cost little to nothing:

• Extra walks – Try somewhere new, like a new hiking trail or dog beach, to give your dog fresh smells, sights and a whole lot of mental stimulation.
  

• Training refreshers – Try teaching your dog a new skill, even a small one, to build confidence, strengthen your bond and keep their brain ticking.
  

• DIY enrichment – Simple things like hiding treats in a towel or cardboard box can turn snack time into a fun, brain-boosting game.
  

• Bulk-buying quality treats that last longer – Stocking up on good stuff means fewer impulse buys and more peace of mind about what your dog is eating.
  

• Choosing chews that keep dogs occupied for ages – Long-lasting, natural chews can replace multiple quick treats.
  

• Toy rotation – Pack half your dog’s toys away and rotate them weekly so old toys feel brand new again (zero dollars spent).
  

• Frozen boredom busters – Freeze treats in water, bone broth or yoghurt (if suitable for your dog) for a longer-lasting, lick-worthy challenge (check out our recipes here!).

Loving them means thinking long-term

For mature dog parents and senior pups, pampering often looks a little different.

Think about:

• Prioritising joint-friendly enrichment – Activities like slow sniff walks, gentle chew sessions and puzzle games keep senior dogs engaged without putting strain on aging joints.
  

• Choosing appropriately sized chews – Selecting chews that suit older teeth helps maintain dental health while keeping chewing comfortable and safe.
  

• Supporting rest and recovery – Making space for regular naps and quiet time helps senior dogs recharge and feel secure in their daily rhythm.
  

• Keeping things familiar – Familiar walking routes, feeding times and sleep spots can be incredibly comforting for older dogs as they age.
  

• Offering extra reassurance and touch – Gentle pats, massages and one-on-one attention go a long way in helping senior pups feel calm, connected and loved.

Because at this stage of life, love is felt most in the quiet, consistent moments where they know they’re safe, comfortable and deeply cared for.

National Love Your Pet Day — the WAG way

At WAG, we’ve always believed that love should be natural.

It’s in the way you show up for your dog, the way you care about where their food comes from, and the quiet choices you make every day to put their wellbeing first.

So this February 20, celebrate National Love Your Pet Day by:

• Spending quality time
  

• Adding enrichment to their routine
  

• Choosing natural treats made from real ingredients
  

• Creating small moments of delight, just for them

Celebrate the simple joys, the everyday rituals, and the deep love you share with your furry best friend.