We celebrate our precious pups every day. However, it's nice to do something special on National Dog Day, which falls on Aug. 26, 2025 — and there are plenty of places that offer freebies for your companion. While you can find perks like pup cups year-round, many local spots offer something special on the national holiday. Taking advantage of these offers is also a great way to save money while treating your furry best friend.
Celebrate with your furry friend by checking out these 12 places to get freebies on National Dog Day.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
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Raising Cane's
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Dog owners in Las Vegas have the opportunity to celebrate at Raising Cane's.
Bring your dog through the drive-thru anytime between 9 a.m. and 2 a.m. local time to receive one free pet swag item. No purchase necessary, simply bring your pooch along for the ride. There is a limit of one swag item per dog. Be sure to check your Las Vegas location for participation.
Year-round pup cup spots
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While National Dog Day brings out special freebies, many restaurants and coffee shops keep the love flowing all year long. Starbucks is famous for its "puppuccino"— a small cup of whipped cream — available for free upon request at most locations. Dairy Queen offers pup cups at many stores, often topped with a Milk-Bone, and Bruster's hands out complimentary doggie sundaes daily.
Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream
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Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream is celebrating dogs throughout August with a free pup cup.
Show up with your pup to receive their special treat. Whether you plan to visit the ice cream shop on National Dog Day or another date, your furry companion is sure to appreciate their delicious pup cup.
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Bark & Luv
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In Chandler, AZ, Bark & Luv's National Dog Day Celebration takes place on Aug. 26.
During the celebration, your dog receives a free pupcake with any purchase, available while supplies last. Also, check out the BOGO Self-Serve Dog Washes (buy one, get one free).
Pure Pawsh
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Pure Pawish in San Diego, CA, is holding a National Dog Day event on Aug. 26, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Every pup who stops by with their pawrent receives a free dog beer. It's available while supplies last, so the venue is only allowing one drink per dog. Raise a glass to your favorite furry friend!
Bark Ranger Day
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In Georgia, celebrate National Dog Day by participating in Bark Ranger Day. The event takes place at the Fort King George Historic Site on Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
While admission ranges from $4.75 to $8.25, your pup has the opportunity to earn a free doggy medallion. Participate in a small scavenger hunt on the property for your dog to be sworn in by an official Bark Ranger.
Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals
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August is here, and with it comes the final stretch of summer. It’s a great time to soak up the season and scoop up hot deals before they fade. Look for savings on:
- Travel and getaway must-haves
- Back-to-school basics
- Clearance swimwear and warm-weather styles
- For grocery savings, grab peak-season produce, like tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and berries
As retailers shift their focus to fall, August is the last chance to snag summer essentials at unbeatable prices. Shop smart now before the season (and the savings) slip away.
Road Runner Sports Adoption Event
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Road Runner Sports and Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary in Arizona are teaming up to celebrate National Dog Day on Aug. 26, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Stop by during the event with your pooch to receive a free Road Runner Sports dog bandana. Mention the Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary to receive 10% off your purchase. Plus, 10% of your pre-tax total is donated to the sanctuary.
Cody's National Dog Day 2025
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Attend the National Dog Day event at Cody's Public House in Chicago, IL, on Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. to receive a free dog bandana from Surfside Vodka. Surfside is also providing a sampling and raffle during the event. Plus, Tito's & Treat is offering a sampling at 6:30 p.m.
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Four Paws Pantry & Spa
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Four Paws Pantry & Spa in Olathe, KS, is celebrating National Dog Day with free sweets.
To participate, snap a picture of your pet and tag the business on social media at #FourPawsFamily. Next, visit the location and show your post at the register. Then, receive a half-dozen Walter Treats!
IronOaks at Sun Lakes
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IronOaks at Sun Lakes in Arizona is hosting a National Dog Day Yappy Hour on Aug. 26, from 7 a.m. through 8 a.m.
The event is free to attend and full of fun for dogs and their humans. Bring your dog for a Puppuccino treat while you enjoy a tasty boozy (or non-boozy) morning drink yourself. You may even win the 7:30 a.m. raffle.
Carmel Mission Inn
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Check out the Carmel Mission Inn's Dog Bar in California on National Dog Day from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
With free admission, enjoy the dog gift baskets and raffle prizes, as well as a delicious food and beverage menu. Your dog is sure to enjoy spending the evening with their favorite human.
Quick tips: How to travel or dine out without going broke
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Thoughtful planning can help you maximize your travel experience without draining your wallet. Here are some tips on how to balance your adventure with a budget:
- Visit restaurants during happy hour or lunch for lower prices
- Use cashback dining apps like Seated or credit cards with travel/dining rewards
- Use price comparison tools like Hopper or Google Flights to track airfare drops
- Book accommodations with kitchens to prepare some meals yourself
You never know where your most memorable moments will come from. So consider both the emotional and financial value of an experience to find the things that are truly worth your money.
Dog Days of Summer
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The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum is hosting a National Dog Day event on Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as the museum is closed on the actual holiday.
Enjoy the doggy story time and treat goodie bags, drink station, raffle, and other activities throughout the day. The last trolley leaves at 3 p.m., with regular admission for humans and free admission for dogs.
Bottom line
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National Dog Day was started in 2004 by dog trainer and animal behaviorist Colleen Paige. Since then, it's become widely celebrated by dog owners, businesses, and our four-legged companions alike.
When National Dog Day arrives, there are plenty of ways to celebrate with your pup. Attend a festival with a free item or admission, or participate in a scavenger hunt or social media trend. These freebies and discounts can even help you stretch your fast food budget while making the day special. It's no secret that dogs bring joy to our lives, so let's celebrate them with cuddles, outings, and plenty of treats.
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