Dogs love us unconditionally, they seek warmth and contact, they know how to soothe us with a single touch. Many dogs need cuddles as much as they need walks: to snuggle up on the side, put their face on your shoulder, “hug” with their paws and fall asleep next to you. There are many people who get a dog primarily for this closeness – cuddles cure loneliness, relieve tension, add a sense of home. So let’s make a real holiday for our faithful friends on September 14: more tenderness, more time together, more warmth.

What this holiday is and why it is September 14

Dog Hug Day is celebrated annually on the second Sunday of September – in 2025 this date falls on September 14. The “moving” date format was deliberately chosen so that dog owners could dedicate a weekend day to the celebration, when there is time for walks, socializing and cuddling.

The holiday originated in the United States in the early 2000s. It was founded by Ami Moore, an American cynologist and behaviorist known in Chicago by the nickname “Dog Whisperer.” She worked on behavioral intervention programs and sought to convey a simple message: dogs need not only training, but also close emotional contact with their owners. That’s when Hug Your Hound Day was born, a holiday designed to show that the best dog care starts at home, with closeness and trust.

Through articles in canine magazines, television appearances and a rapid spread on social media, the holiday expanded beyond Chicago and later beyond the United States. The idea was picked up in Europe and other countries, because hugs with a dog are universal: they don’t require words, but give a feeling of safety and happiness.

The main message remains unchanged: not once a year, but every day to pay attention to your faithful friend, read his signals, respect his boundaries and give warmth. Dog Cuddle Day is just a reminder that love and trust between humans and animals is created constantly – in the little things, in caring, and in the very hugs that dogs appreciate so much.

Why hugs are beneficial

Affectionate body contact increases the level of the “attachment hormone” oxytocin in both humans and dogs. This is why both feel trust, warmth and relaxation after a relaxing hug. It is important to take into account individuality: not all dogs like a direct “human” hug – some are more comfortable to cuddle sideways or just lie closer.

How to celebrate September 14

– Quiet cuddles without fuss: sit on the floor or sofa and let the dog choose a comfortable position.
– A little care: brushing, checking paws, ears, short hygiene is also the language of love.
– “Hugs in motion”: a slow walk side by side, contact games, joint photos to remember.
– A safety gift: a comfortable harness, an updated number tag, a comfortable place to sleep.
– A little tradition: do a “5 minute hug” every night and the celebration will stay with you all year long.

Ethics and safety

– Read the signals: relaxed body, soft breathing, calm gaze – “yes”; tense, head turned away, tail tucked – “no”.
– Children – only with adults and briefly.
– Unfamiliar dogs are not hugged without the owner’s permission.
– For health reasons (neck/back pain, post-operative stitches) – only gentle side contact.

Conclusion

On September 14, let’s give our Loved Ones the most precious thing – our time and tenderness. Let’s hug them the way they love, sit together longer than usual, say warm words and let them feel the depth of our love. There is nothing more important for a dog than to be near his master, to feel the touch of his hands and the warmth of his heart. Let this day become a symbol of our gratitude for their devotion and boundless love.

And the best gift for Tails can be a trip to a grooming salon for a full SPA-care: a warm bath, combing, massage and a set of procedures, after which your pet will feel well-groomed and happy. And, of course, let’s make these hugs not a one-time event, but a daily ritual, so that every day will be a small holiday of tenderness and joy.