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Planning the Perfect Barkday Party for Your Dog

Thursday, January 06, 2022 | By: Deborah Stevenson

Planning the Perfect Barkday Party for Your Dog

Your dog is family, and it's never too early to start planning their birthday party. After all, how can you resist an occasion to celebrate your dog and that cute "boop-able" nose? Whether you're looking to pamper your pup or hoping to throw an all-out bash with activities, food, and games, I've put together some tips and inspiration for a successful shindig that will be remembered long after the cake has been eaten.

Hi Gail, I would love that for folioyvr.com! Send over and include how you want to be credited. Pic and Bio / Short paragraph at the end with links / Whatever works for you. All my best, Helen

Where Will the Party Be and How Much Room Is There?

The first thing you'll need to plan is where the party will be. If it's an indoor event, you can probably host it in your home or apartment. However, if the weather is nice, you might want to consider an outdoor event in your backyard or at a local park. Just make sure to comply with any pet bylaws and leash laws. In the end, it comes down to how much room you have and how many guests you plan to invite.  

Writing the Invitation List

When inviting guests to the party, it's important to consider everyone who will be attending. I suggest sending out invitations two to three weeks before the big day. Make sure to let your guests know if the event is pet-friendly. You may not have the space to host your friends and their fur babies, so make sure it's clear on the invitation. 

I know I love to get something in the mail that isn't junk mail or a bill, so consider sending a cute invitation by mail. You can also send email invitations if you prefer a more environmentally friendly option. 

Selecting the Perfect Cake

We all know that our furry companions have delicate stomachs; they can’t handle the sugar and chocolate found in traditional cakes. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up the cake altogether! 

There are plenty of local dog bakeries specializing in creating cakes, cupcakes and treats, especially for Fido or Fluffy's big day.  A few of my go-to dog bakeries are Gibson's Gourmet Goodies, Little Pup Cakery, Spoiled Pups Bakehouse and Big Dog Little Dog Bakery. 

If you're looking to make your cake, I'd recommend this cake. Honey is safe to consume for dogs (in moderation), as is peanut butter, eggs, carrot, and flour. The icing is a mix of mashed potatoes and plain yogurt.

When baking, use the eight-inch cake pans or individual cupcakes (don't worry about liners). The cupcakes make them perfectly shareable for the birthday pup's guests.

Hi Gail, I would love that for folioyvr.com! Send over and include how you want to be credited. Pic and Bio / Short paragraph at the end with links / Whatever works for you. All my best, Helen

Document the Occasion

We’ve all heard of the cash smash photo session for youngsters, and your pet deserves nothing less. Whether it's your pet's birthday, gotcha day or adoptiversary, commemorating their arrival into the world or into your life is a BIG DEAL! That’s why Cedar & Bark Photography offers completely custom “Cake Smash” birthday-themed photo sessions. All Barkday sessions come complete with a beautiful specialty dog cake, a celebration doggie bag and bandana to wear and take home. Professional print worthy photos are the perfect addition to any home, with options of keepsake boxes, professional albums, or a gallery wrapped canvas to display. It’s the easiest way to document your pet’s milestones without having to spend your time behind the camera (that’s my job!).

 

Hi Gail, I would love that for folioyvr.com! Send over and include how you want to be credited. Pic and Bio / Short paragraph at the end with links / Whatever works for you. All my best, Helen

Party Decorations 

Decorations and party favours for guests should be ready before the big day. I recommend packing away anything breakable and putting up balloons of varying colours to decorate your house. If you don't have balloons, then streamers will do just fine. Just remember to use lightweight, non-breakable decorations in case your canine guests get a little rambunctious.

Loot Bags for Guests

As a guest, one of the best parts of any birthday party is the loot bag! #Amiright 

So, make sure to send your pup's besties home with some fabulous pawty treats. Treats and toys that pups can enjoy at home, as well as a thank-you note from you and your dog, will be received with much appreciation. If you've made cupcakes, be sure each doggo gets one to take home.

Accessories for the Guest of Honour

You want your pup to look their best on their big day. If you're thinking of a special bandana or bowtie, be sure to check out Gracie's Dog Bonetique. They have an assortment of pet accessories that will make your dog look like a million bucks!

The Snack Table

If you're looking for unique snack options, consider adding pet-friendly snacks to the table. A simple fruit tray holding apples, bananas, cantaloupe, blueberries, and mango is a snack for humans and pups. Likewise, all party guests can enjoy a vegetable tray of cucumber, carrots, broccoli, celery, and peas. Finally, a simple cheese tray can be safely enjoyed by pups (and their humans). Aged cheese like Swiss, mozzarella, and cheddar are all great options for dogs. Cottage cheese is another healthy snack for all party members. 

Remember, It's About Having Fun

Here are some ideas for games and activities to keep your canine guests entertained. Squeaky toys, ropes and balls can all offer a ton of entertainment for your canine guests. One of my favourite outdoor activities for barkday parties is dog-safe bubbles. These are fun for dogs to chase and catch. I recommend doing this outdoors as the bubbles can leave a residue you may not want on your indoor furniture. Read more about dog safe bubbles here.

While an Instagram-worthy party is probably the goal, it's important to remember to enjoy the day too. Relax. Kick back. Enjoy the afternoon with your favourite friends, whether four-legged or two-legged.

 

Are you interested in having professional photos taken to celebrate your furry friend? Click the button below to learn more about my Barkday Celebration Sessions.

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