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 BERNIE: A 9-YEAR-OLD SNUGGLER WHO TUCKS HIMSELF IN AT NIGHT

August 02, 2026

Meet Bernie, affectionately known as "Bernardo," a 9-year-old snuggler who has never met a stranger and greets everyone with a genuine doggy smile. This peanut butter lover has a talent all his own: he tucks himself in at night, then snores away happily once he's settled. Bernie has been by his mom Deborah's side since he was a baby, riding along on countless road trips up the West Coast, standing with her through the loss of her father, and even serving as the bridge that brought her closer to her step-kids. Whether he's meeting snow for the first time or being the best big brother to his Frenchie sibling Dr. Pepper, Bernie has a way of making every day feel a little warmer.

QUICK FACTS

Age: 9
Next Birthday: May 5, 2027
Nickname: Bernardo
Favorite Treat: Peanut butter
Favorite Activity: Snuggling
Special Talent: Tucking himself in at night
Instagram: @weekends_with_bernie

GETTING TO KNOW BERNIE

What's Bernie's favorite treat?
Peanut butter

What does he love to do?
Snuggling

What's his most adorable quirk?
Snoring

A CONVERSATION WITH BERNIE'S MOM, DEBORAH

How has Bernie changed your life?
Bernie has been with me since he was a baby. He has accompanied me in countless road trips up the west coast, he was with me thru the death of my father and he was the bridge between me and my step-kids. He has never met a stranger and he greets you with a doggy smile!

What's your favorite memory with Bernie?
Introducing him to snow!

What's the most important lesson Bernie has taught you?
Bad days can be fixed by a quick snuggle.

How do you celebrate and make special moments with Bernie?
Every moment with Bernie is special. I have his stickers on my badge at school (thanks to you all), we put up yard signs for his bday so the whole neighborhood can celebrate him!

How has Bernie helped you through challenging times?
The death of my father.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about Bernie?
Bernie is the best big brother to our frenchie, Dr. Pepper.