Are you one of the pet owners that throws dog’s birthday celebration parties for their dogs? If you don't, you and your dog might be losing out on a lot of fun. And before you dismiss it as a ridiculous notion imaginable, consider this: humans enjoying fun with dogs – what could be better? We offer some suggestions for hosting a dog-themed party that is enjoyable, safe, and manageable. Of course, on their birthday. If you don't know your dog's actual birthday, pick the day you first met them or the day you brought them home.

Where

This is dependent on the season. Your spacious enclosed yard is excellent in the summer. Consider a dog park or a dog beach if you don't have a fenced yard. You'll want a dog-friendly location for interior gatherings, such as a local doggy daycare or obedience school. Make sure the place is impregnable to escape.

Who

Even if you want to invite every buddy you've ever had, consider your dog's personality first. Is he a friendly, outgoing pup who gets along with humans, other dogs, and children? Is it more likely that he prefers the companionship of a few familiar canine companions? Perhaps your dog is more people-oriented and doesn't feel at ease among a large group of dogs. This should help you decide who to invite. Regardless, it's best not to invite dogs he hasn't met before; a party isn't the ideal location for them to meet.

What

Choose a theme for your dog's birthday celebration if you want to be more creative, or keep it simple. If your dog (and you) are into it, now could be the best time to get a dog costume or cap. Every gathering requires some entertainment. If it's hot outside, you might fill a kiddie pool or put up a sprinkler for the dogs to cool down in. A basket of fresh tennis balls will entertain your canine visitors. Alternatively, combine the two ideas by filling a kiddie pool with tennis balls to create an immediate bouncing pit for dogs. Fill a bucket with yummy treats and play "bobbing for treats" with the dogs (maybe one at a time). You may also stuff Kong toys with food and scatter them over the yard. Of course, all of this requires human supervision because, much as with children, what begins as fun may quickly devolve into a tantrum or a fight.

Food & Beverage

What good is a party if there isn't food and drink? Consider dog-themed goodies for the people, such as mini-hotdogs and sandwiches sliced into bone shapes. What about a massive pot of chili served in a giant dog food dish with trail mix that resembles kibble? Make sweets for your human guests using dog-themed cookie cutters. Along with the standard soda and water, many beers have dog-themed names to choose from.

The birthday dog and his pals are also deserving of some special treats.  You can make excellent, nutritious, and delectable birthday party dog treats.  Also, make sure there are numerous bowls of freshwater strewn throughout the location. Of course, there's the dog birthday cake (as well as dog ice cream!). Your dog will appreciate it whether you make it yourself using dog-friendly materials or buy a dog birthday cake kit or ready-made dog birthday cake. 

Don't forget to include the goody bags. After the celebration, send your canine visitors home with some snacks to enjoy.

Dog parties are comparable to children's birthday parties in that they involve a lot of excitement and commotion, a lot of mess, maybe some conflicts, fun, and a little mayhem. There are few occasions in life when we may experience pure, uncomplicated joy, and what could be more joyful than a pack of dogs running around, playing freely, misbehaving joyfully, and generally having a good time?