NATIONAL DAYANIMALS

National Mutt Day

National Mutt Day is a time to celebrate the unique spirit of mixed-breed dogs and promote adoption.

JUL31

Saturday, July 31Every year on July 31

days to go

Roots: Founded by Colleen Paige in 2005
Vibe: Heartwarming and playful
Also on Jul 31: Talk in an Elevator Day · System Administrator Appreciation Day · World Ranger Day
Hashtag: #NationalMuttDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Spoil your mutt

Extra treats, a long walk and all the belly rubs.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a doggy playdate

Bring your mutts to the park for games and snacks.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Support mixed-breed rescues

Donate to a shelter that finds mutts loving homes.

Plan ahead

National Mutt Day is observed on July 31 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Fri, Jul 31this year

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2031Thu, Jul 31

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2034Mon, Jul 31

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2036Thu, Jul 31

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Fast facts

Over 80 millionDogs are owned as pets in the US

Mixed-breed dogs make beloved family pets.

The story

National Mutt Day was founded in 2005 by Colleen Paige, a renowned animal behaviorist and pet lifestyle expert. Paige's mission was to raise awareness about the joys of adopting mixed-breed dogs and to reduce pet overpopulation.

Read the full story

Mixed-breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are truly one-of-a-kind companions. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and personalities, making each one unique and special in their own way.

Despite their many wonderful qualities, mutts are often overlooked in shelters, with many potential adopters opting for purebred dogs instead. National Mutt Day aims to change this by highlighting the benefits of adopting a mixed-breed dog.

By adopting a mutt, you not only gain a loving companion but also open up a space in the shelter for another dog in need. This selfless act can have a significant impact on reducing pet overpopulation and improving the lives of countless animals.

Did you know?

Mixed-Breed Advantage

Mixed-breed dogs often have a lower risk of inherited health problems

Unique Appearance

Mutts come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and coat types

Intelligence

Many mixed-breed dogs are highly intelligent and trainable

Loyalty

Mutts are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners

Adoption Statistics

Mutts of every size and temperament wait for homes in shelters.

Celebrity Mutts

Many celebrities, including actors and musicians, own and adore mixed-breed dogs

Mutt Myth-Busting

Despite common misconceptions, mutts can make wonderful family pets and companions

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUS Animal SheltersMany shelters across the US participate in National Mutt Day adoption events
GBUK Animal RescueUK-based organizations also observe National Mutt Day, promoting adoption and animal welfare
CACanadian Animal SheltersCanadian shelters and rescue groups join in the celebration, highlighting the importance of adoption
AUAustralian Animal RescueAustralian organizations participate in National Mutt Day, promoting mixed-breed adoption and animal welfare
FRFrench Animal SheltersFrench animal shelters and rescue groups observe National Mutt Day, raising awareness about pet adoption
JPJapanese Animal RescueJapanese organizations also participate in National Mutt Day, promoting mixed-breed adoption and responsible pet ownership