National Dog Day Deals: 7 Fun Ways to Celebrate!

National Dog Day Deals: Dogs are Family! National Dog Day, founded in 2004 by animal advocate Colleen Paige, celebrates all dogs – mixed breed and purebred – and raises awareness about rescuing dogs in need. It’s observed every August 26 as a day to spoil our canine companions with love, treats, and even special freebies and discounts.

For genealogy and family history enthusiasts, this day holds extra meaning. After all, pets are part of the family – in fact, nearly 70% of U.S. households have a pet and over half consider their pet a family member. Many of us have a rich family history with pets, cherishing stories and old photos of beloved dogs that were “first children” or faithful companions to our ancestors.

National Dog Day is the perfect occasion to honor those furry family members, past and present. And what better way for a family historian to celebrate than by exploring your dog’s own ancestry? Just as we trace our human lineage, we can also delve into our dogs’ breed heritage. Even major genealogy companies are getting in on the trend – Ancestry® (known for its human DNA tests) has launched a dog DNA test kit to help you discover your pup’s background.

In this post, we’ll show how you can celebrate National Dog Day by uncovering your dog’s ancestry and dog breed history, all while snagging some National Dog Day deals on pet DNA kits, breed-specific gear, costumes, and more. The tone is friendly and fun – after all, our dogs are family, and family history should be fun for every family member (even the four-legged ones)!

Discover Your Dog’s Ancestry with DNA Test Kits

Dog DNA test kits – like Ancestry’s new Know Your Pet DNA – let you uncover your pup’s breed mix, genetic traits, and even find canine DNA “relatives.” It’s like a genealogy test for your furry family member.

One of the most exciting trends for pet lovers (and genealogists!) is the rise of dog DNA test kits. Much like the DNA tests that genealogists use to trace human lineage, these at-home kits analyze your dog’s genetics to reveal insights about their breed makeup and heritage. For example, Ancestry’s Know Your Pet DNA test can tell you the precise breakdown of your dog’s breed mix, identify genetic traits, and even match your pup with other dogs in their database.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your “mutt” has a dash of German Shepherd or a hint of Chihuahua, a DNA test will give you answers. The process is simple: swab your dog’s cheek, send in the sample, and in a few weeks you’ll receive a report detailing your dog’s ancestry and traits. It’s the canine equivalent of tracing a family tree!

These dog DNA test kits have become increasingly popular, and luckily, they’re often available at a discount around pet-themed holidays. In fact, major retailers like Amazon have begun offering exclusive National Dog Day discounts every August, so it’s a smart time to snag a kit for your pet. Watch for National Dog Day deals on top-rated kits such as Embark and Wisdom Panel, in addition to Ancestry’s own kit. (Earlier this year on National Pet Day, Ancestry’s Know Your Pet DNA kit was on sale for $79, down from $99 – a good example of the bargains you might find.)

With keywords like “dog DNA test kits” trending, retailers know pet parents are eager to learn about their dog’s family background. Keep an eye on Amazon’s pet deals page, which often features coupons and Lightning Deals on pet products, sometimes up to 70% off regular prices. Scoring a deal on a DNA kit makes the discovery of your dog’s ancestry even sweeter.

Dogs Have Family Trees Too

As genealogists, we understand the thrill of building a family tree – and it turns out our dogs can have family trees as well! If your dog is a purebred, you might already have documentation of their pedigree. Kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC) have kept stud book records of dog lineages dating back to the 19th century. In other words, breeders have been tracking “dog genealogy” for over a hundred years. A certified AKC pedigree can show your purebred dog’s family tree, including ancestors’ names, titles, and even countries of origin. How’s that for history?

But even if your beloved pup is a mixed breed, their story is no less interesting. A DNA test kit can uncover the blend of breeds in their background, essentially giving you the pieces to assemble your dog’s family history. Once you know your dog’s breed mix, you can have fun researching each dog breed’s history. Many breeds have fascinating origin stories – for instance, you might learn that your dog’s herding instinct comes from a Border Collie ancestor developed in Scotland, or that their love of water traces back to a Newfoundland’s seafaring heritage.

Exploring dog breed history is like a miniature history lesson: every breed was shaped by the people and places that created it. This adds a new dimension to your family history hobby, as you connect your pet’s past with your own. And who knows, you might even discover that your dog’s breeds have a connection to your family’s ancestral homelands!

Celebrate with Breed‑Specific Gear and Photo-Worthy Costumes

Many pet owners celebrate National Dog Day by dressing up their pups in cute, photo-worthy outfits. Whether it’s a simple bandana or a full costume, fun dog apparel lets you show off your pet pride (and makes for great family photos!).

National Dog Day isn’t only about introspection – it’s also about showing off your dog pride and having fun! One way to do that is by sporting some breed-specific gear. If you’re a genealogist who finally discovered your dog’s true breed mix, why not celebrate it? Imagine wearing a t-shirt that proclaims “The Dog Mother” or sipping coffee from a mug adorned with your dog’s likeness. Amazon is filled with breed-specific merchandise – from apparel and jewelry to home décor – so you can proudly represent your pup’s heritage.

For example, you might find a hoodie with a Golden Retriever silhouette or a tote bag featuring various dog breed cartoons. These items not only let the world know how much you love your dog, but they’re also great conversation starters at genealogy meetings (“Ask me about my dog’s ancestry!”). Be sure to search for National Dog Day deals on such breed-themed products; retailers often include pet apparel and accessories in their special promotions.

And let’s not forget the sheer joy of dressing up our dogs. Many pet parents use this holiday as an excuse to put their fur baby in a fun outfit or dog costume – and share the adorable results online. In fact, on National Dog Day, owners often buy “photo-worthy” outfits for their pups and happily post the pics on social media. Whether it’s a simple bandana, a cute shirt, or a full-blown costume, your dog’s wardrobe can be both festive and meaningful.

You could even combine your love of history with pet costumes: for instance, dress your dog in a costume reflecting your family’s heritage or an era from your family history (a Victorian-era pup, anyone?). Pet supply retailers have noticed this trend too. You’ll find dog costumes ranging from superhero capes to “hot dog” suits – and around late summer, many of these are on sale ahead of Halloween.

Dog Day deals often cover pet “wearables,” including costumes and seasonal outfits, so it’s an ideal time to pick up that cute taco costume for your Chihuahua or a regal crown for your King Charles Spaniel. The goal is simply to have fun and make memories. Snap a family photo with your dog in their outfit – it might just become a cherished addition to your family history album for future generations to chuckle over!

More Ways to Include Your Dog in the Family Story

As family historians, we know that family history isn’t only found in census records and archives – it’s also living right now in our own homes. Your dog is part of your family story, so why not incorporate them into your genealogy activities? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Trace Fido’s family tree: Use a dog DNA test kit to learn about your pup’s ancestry. This not only satisfies curiosity but also gives you information about breeds and traits (and it’s a fantastic conversation piece for your next family reunion). Plus, you might score one of those National Dog Day deals on a DNA kit, making it a budget-friendly project.

• Show off breed pride: Celebrate your dog’s heritage by picking up some breed-specific gear. Wear a t-shirt or hat with your dog’s breed, or decorate your home office (where you do your genealogy research) with a cute sign or pillow that honors your furry friend. Many of these items are available on Amazon’s pet deals section at a discount.

• Dress them up for the occasion: Commemorate National Dog Day with a fun photo session. Dress your pup in a special outfit or costume – perhaps something symbolic, like the flag of your ancestors’ country or just a goofy getup that makes everyone smile. It’s a fun way to create new memories (and you’ll have great photos to include in your family scrapbook). Don’t forget, pet costumes and accessories might be on sale during this time.

• Record their story: Take some time on National Dog Day to write down your pet’s story as part of your family history. Note how you met your dog, funny anecdotes, and even include the DNA test findings and origin of their breeds. Our dogs may not appear in traditional family trees, but they hold a special place in our family narrative. Future generations will love knowing about the loyal Labrador or spunky terrier that was a member of the family.

Sniffing Out the Best Deals for National Dog Day

Finally, as a savvy Genealogy Bargains reader, you’ll want to know where to find the best National Dog Day deals. The good news is that major retailers have embraced this “pawsome” holiday as a mini shopping event. Amazon and other pet retailers offer exclusive Dog Day discounts every August, so it pays to do a little deal-hunting around that date.

Start by visiting Amazon’s pet supplies deals page (hint: check the National Dog Day or Pet Day section if available) to see the latest promotions on pet items. You’re likely to find sales on a wide range of products – from DNA test kits and pet tech gadgets to toys, grooming supplies, and treats. According to Amazon, their pet deals and coupons can range from 10% off to over 70% off on select items, so significant savings are possible. Keep an eye out for Lightning Deals on popular dog products, and consider setting up an Amazon Wishlist or alerts for keywords like “dog DNA kit”, “dog treats”, or “dog bed” so you’ll be notified of any price drops.

Also, don’t forget to leverage your Amazon Prime benefits if you have them – free fast shipping means you can get those last-minute gifts or treats for your pup in time for the big day. And if you’re shopping for multiple pet-related items, look for bundle deals or use Amazon’s Subscribe & Save for ongoing essentials (though maybe not for that dog costume – one is probably enough!). By planning ahead and doing a quick search on August 26, you can celebrate National Dog Day with great goodies for your dog and keep your budget intact.

Conclusion: Honoring Your Dog’s Ancestry and Enjoying the Day

On this National Do Day, embrace the chance to connect your passion for family history with your love for dogs. Whether you’re uncovering your dog’s ancestral secrets with a DNA test, learning about the history of dog breeds, or simply spoiling your pup with new toys and a cute outfit, you’re acknowledging that our pets are truly part of the family story. As the saying goes, “Family is who you share your life with” – and for many of us, that happily includes our dogs.

So go ahead and celebrate National Dog Day with a mix of nostalgia, discovery, and shopping savvy. Dig into your dog’s roots, deck them (and yourself) out in breed-proud gear, and take advantage of those National Dog Day deals (from dog DNA test kits to quirky costumes) to make the day extra special. Your furry friend’s “ancestry” journey might just become one of your favorite family history tales – and you’ll have made some wonderful new memories together, which is what family history is all about. Happy National Dog Day, and happy ancestor (and paw-cestor) hunting! 🐾🎉

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Author’s Note: I want to be transparent that this article – National Dog Day Deals: Exploring Your Dog’s Ancestry and Breed History – was created in part with the help of an artificial intelligence (AI) language model – ChatGPT 5o PRO with Deep Reasoning. The AI assisted in generating an early draft of the article, but every paragraph was subsequently reviewed, edited, and refined by me. The final content is the result of extensive human curation and creativity. I am proud to present this work and assure readers that while AI was a tool in the process, the story, style, and substance have been carefully shaped by the author.

Updated August 18, 2025

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