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 PEPPER: A 2-YEAR-OLD TAG-PLAYER WHO BROUGHT LIFE BACK HOME

April 22, 2026

Meet Pepper, affectionately known as "Spider Monkey," a 2-year-old ball of love whose signature moves include an intense game of tag, an impressive catching ability, and falling asleep on her mom Yokarine's lap during TV time like it's the safest place in the world. Her prized possession is a tomato plushie with a little worm sticking out of it, and when it comes to treats, she has zero preferences because she loves every single one of them equally. Pepper came into Yokarine's life after the family lost their 11-year-old dog Johanna, and she brought something back to the house that had been missing for a while. She didn't replace anything, she just filled the space with her own kind of warmth and energy, reminding everyone that love really is all you need. When she's not chewing her bone or begging for car rides and walks, Pepper is doing what she does best, which is just being there, right by her family's side, making the everyday stuff feel a little lighter.

QUICK FACTS

Age: 2
Next Birthday: April 13, 2027
Nickname: Spider Monkey
Special Talent: Excellent catcher
Favorite Toy: Tomato plushie with a worm
Favorite Treat: All of them
Instagram: @Peppersnewstart

GETTING TO KNOW PEPPER

What's Pepper's favorite toy?
Tomato plushie with a worm

What's her favorite treat?
She loves all her treats

What does she love to do?
Chewing her bone

What's her most adorable quirk?
She likes to play tag

A CONVERSATION WITH PEPPER'S MOM, YOKARINE

How has Pepper changed your life?
My dog brought life back to our home after we lost our 11 year old dog Johanna. Pepper is so special and full of love. We can't imagine life without her.

What's your favorite memory with Pepper?
When she falls asleep on my lap as we watch TV together.

What's the most important lesson Pepper has taught you?
Love is all you need.

How do you celebrate and make special moments with Pepper?
Every moment with Pepper is special, but she loves her car rides and walks.

How has Pepper helped you through challenging times?
Knowing that she is by our side is pretty much all we need to get through the everyday challenges.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about Pepper?
She makes this world a better place.

We started PartyAnimal because we believe every dog deserves to be celebrated — read our story.