Do dogs know it's their birthday?

While dogs don't understand the concept of birthdays, they absolutely pick up on the extra excitement, attention, and treats. Dogs are highly attuned to their owner's emotions, so when you're celebrating, they feel the joy too. A birthday celebration is a wonderful way to bond with your pup and show them extra love.

How do I find out my dog's birthday?

If you adopted your dog, check adoption papers or ask the shelter for an estimated birth date. If the exact date is unknown, many pet owners celebrate their dog's 'gotcha day' (adoption anniversary) instead. You can also ask your vet for an age estimate based on teeth and physical development to pick an approximate birthday.

MEET BEAU: A 5-YEAR-OLD STANDARD POODLE WHO ONCE FACED DOWN A BEAR

March 19, 2026

Meet Beau, a bold and fearless 5-year-old Standard Poodle who lives life at full speed. Whether he's sprinting through the woods, leaping into the water, or playing endless games of fetch with his beloved rubber smiley face toy, this off-leash trained adventure dog is always ready for action. Beau's curious and energetic personality once led to an unforgettable standoff with a black bear, both of them wisely deciding to run in opposite directions. Beyond his fearless nature, Beau is deeply loyal and brings endless joy and laughter to his mom Sharon's days, reminding her to get outside and enjoy the simple pleasures of running, playing, and splashing in the water.

QUICK FACTS

Age: 5
Breed: Standard Poodle
Favorite Toy: Rubber Smiley Face
Favorite Treat: Stella and Chewy's Meal Mixers
Special Talent: Off-leash trained and very smart

GETTING TO KNOW BEAU

What's Beau's favorite toy?
Rubber Smiley Face

What's his favorite treat?
Stella and Chewy's Meal Mixers

What does he love to do?
Beau's favorite game is fetch with his rubber smiley face toy. He'll retrieve it every time and bring it back for another throw. He's off-leash trained, loves to run, and is happiest when he's splashing and jumping in the water.

What makes Beau's personality unique?
Beau has a bold personality. He's fearless, curious, and always ready for action. Whether he's sprinting through the woods, chasing his smiley face toy, or leaping into the water, he lives every moment at full speed. At the same time, he's deeply loyal and loves being with his people.

A CONVERSATION WITH BEAU'S MOM, SHARON

What's a funny or memorable story about Beau?
We were walking in a local state forest with Beau when a black bear popped out of the trees. Beau looked at the bear, the bear looked at Beau, and for a second nobody moved. Then they both agreed this was a bad idea and took off running in opposite directions.

How has Beau changed your life?
Beau has changed my life in ways I never expected. He gets me outside, keeps me active, and reminds me to enjoy the simple things—running through the woods, throwing a toy, or jumping in the water. His loyalty, personality, and energy bring a lot of joy and laughter to my days.

What would Beau's perfect birthday party look like?
Beau's perfect doggie birthday party would be outside with plenty of room to run. There would be endless games of fetch with his favorite rubber smiley face toy and plenty of splashing in the water. A few dog friends would be there to run and play, along with lots of treats and belly rubs. And of course, the party wouldn't be complete without a Party Animal birthday party pack and a dog-friendly birthday cake.

Anything else you'd like to share about Beau?
Beau is very smart and well trained off-leash. He pays attention, learns quickly, and enjoys having a job to do—especially when that job involves retrieving his favorite toy.