Including your furry buddy in your holiday celebrations is all part of being a pet parent. But how do you tell your dog Happy Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank?
Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that people either love or hate. If you include your furry buddy in the holiday, even those who don’t like the day find it acceptable. I know you’re asking, how do you include your best fur friend in a special way on a tight budget? It’s not as difficult as you might think.
Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to show your dog love in ways that make their tail wag, deepen your bond, and have fun together, without spending a ton of money. Whether you want unique dog Valentine’s activities, cozy bonding ideas, or simple ways to celebrate that fit your schedule and budget, this list has you covered.
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Budget Tip:
Even on a tight budget you can make your dog's Valentine's Day a pawsome one. The key is to make it a positive day and share it with your best fur friend. What's better than that? Oh yes, it iss basically free. It's a perfect win-win-win for you, your pup, and your wallet.
First, I hear many people ask if their pup even loves them. According to Phys.org, yes, of course, your dog does love you.
Now that’s out of the way, you can plan how to show your buddy love.
1. Be with your dog
This may sound overly simplified, but just being with your dog allows him/her to know you care and love them dearly. As I write this, my dog, Henry, is napping at my side. He knows I love him.
2. Cuddle time
Cuddling can be in the morning, evening, afternoon, or whenever you have time. I like to cuddle with Henry after I brush him in the morning and then as a way to settle down before bed. He will generally fall asleep looking at me. I know he loves me. More importantly, he knows I love him, and I’m his safe spot.
Are you trying to think of other ways to bond with your dog? This article walks you through some fun bonding ideas that are free.
3. Good Boy or Good Girl
Remember to tell your dog he’s a good boy or girl when something good is done. This doesn’t have to be a huge thing. Just a small accomplishment will do, like coming inside when asked. Henry is so happy to come when I call him. I tell him he’s a good boy. Of course, he also gets a kiss on the top of his head. The reaction is something that could never be bought.
4. Body language is a cue
I love watching the body cues Henry gives to me. Some days, he makes me laugh from sunrise to sunset. Other days, he’s a bit more subdued. That’s when I check him out thoroughly to make sure he’s not sick. Knowing your dog and his or her body language is key to a great relationship with your pup and keeping your buddy healthy.
Looking at your dog’s body language and responding accordingly is huge.
- Is your dog’s tail wagging?
- Are your dog’s ears up?
- Or is he huddled with pinned ears and a tucked tail?
You are your dog’s parent or pack leader. Make sure your pup is okay. It’s always good to reassure your dog as needed. If you detect something is off, then seek medical attention.
5. Stroll a new route on your walk or hike
Don’t rush your walk and allow your dog to enjoy all the sniffs he/she wants on the journey. This is like reading the newest book and having to mark the margins for what you like and don’t like. It is your dog’s time, so allow your pup to have it.
Henry always loves a new walking area or even visiting a hiking trail he adores. It’s fun for him and me. I’ve learned how to hike without hurting my back, which makes it even more enjoyable. Then, when we get home, I quickly remove any sap in his fur with hacks I’ve discovered.
A scenic walk can also help reduce boredom and behavior issues. This can mean a happier pup and wallet. My book walks through even more ways to save on your dog’s expenses.
6. Learn a new trick
Most dogs love learning. When a dog is in training mode (even learning a new trick), his/her mind is stimulated, energized, and engaged in the activity. This is a great opportunity to let your dog learn while bonding with your dog.
Henry thrives when he’s training. It is one of his favorite activities. It could be your pup’s favorite as well.
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your dog's expenses while still having fun and keeping your pup healthy, you may love my book Stop The Dog Money Worry. It's a guide you will wish you had a lot sooner.
7. Dog massage at home
I know that you’re thinking this is a bit luxurious. But it does help your dog relax. It also helps with physical issues, along with allowing you to bond with your dog. I encourage you to try it. Henry loves his daily massages! Your dog may as well.
8. Chase that doggie
This is about allowing your dog to play. Chase engages the physical part of your dog and allows your dog to be silly. But, be careful that your dog doesn’t get overzealous with chasing, especially if your pup is a big dog. Henry loves to be chased and plays a game of chase almost every evening.
Also, you can simply play fetch and let your pup chase a ball.
9. Dog mental stimulation
Another way to show your dog you love him on Valentine’s Day is to stimulate his/her mind. This could be through a mind game or even through a sniffing game.
Henry loves sniffing and mealtime games. It’s great for his brain health and super easy. Here are Henry’s favorite brain games.
Or maybe you’d like to set up a simple sniffing game for your dog.
Want even more ways to cut your dog's expenses yet keep the fun? My free 5-Day Dog Budget Bootcamp might be exactly what you need. The best part is that it's all easy to put into action and your dog won't miss a thing.
10. Visit doggie friends or go to doggie daycare
What better way to show your dog you love him or her than by spreading the love? Henry loves to visit his dog friends. But he really loves going to doggie daycare.
I always think in a dog’s mind, views doggie daycare almost like a child views Christmas morning. But instead of Santa just delivering gifts, he’s waiting for them open everything and play with their new toys. Yep, it’s a bit nuts! I’m always thrilled when Henry is willing to come home. I know he loves me.
11. Make a DIY gift
If you can plan a bit ahead, you can make a simple homemade tug-of-war toy, snuffle mat, new bed, sweater, or even a homemade collar. It doesn’t cost much, but it can be fun to have a heartfelt toy to play with your pup.
12. Homemade doggie treats
Make homemade dog treats! Henry LOVES homemade dog cookies. It’s actually a win for both of us. I get to control all the ingredients, and it saves me money. What could be better?
Think you can’t make a dog treat your pup will love? Think again with this free tool that creates recipes from your dog’s favorite flavors. The best part is that the recipes are all easy.
13. Ease your dog’s joint pain
Any time is a good time to tend to your pup’s arthritis or joint pain. Your buddy will appreciate it, and it will warm your heart to see your buddy moving better. There are simple tricks, such as a comfy bed, massage, and joint supplements, that can help more than you think.
While you may need to spend a little for a fluffy bed or supplement, it is generally well worth it. I know Henry moves better with both a comfy bed and a mobility chew.
14. Go on a Valentine’s Date
You may want to consider a doggie date with your spouse or partner. It can be fun and affordable to go to a dog-friendly cafe or on a walking tour. Who wouldn’t love this kind of Valentine’s Day celebration?
Bonus dog Valentine’s Day idea!
Some dogs, like my Henry, love going for car rides. You can take a tour of the area, go for a ride around the block, or go see a friend in another town. But make sure to always use a dog safety belt in the car.
FAQ About Valentine’s Day With Your Dog
Q: Is Valentine’s Day safe for my dog?
A: Yes! Just skip chocolate and candy, choose dog-safe treats, and keep all decorations and flowers out of reach.
Q: Can I give my dog human treats?
A: Only dog-safe ones. Many dogs enjoy plain peanut butter (just peanuts), plain pumpkin puree, apple slices, or dog biscuits shaped like hearts! Henry loves pumpkin on his lick mat.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like wearing costumes or accessories?
A: Respect their comfort. Valentine’s Day can be about quality time and play, not outfits. Heck, Henry doesn’t really like costumes either. That’s fine with me as long as he’s happy and healthy.
Related articles:
- 10 Ways To Bond With Your New Dog
- Creative Mind Games to Entertain Your Dog
- Great Exercises With Dogs
- Easy Hack To Remove Sap From Dog’s Fur
- Fun Dog Play Yard Ideas
Hearts, tails, and paws rejoice with a dog happy Valentine’s Day celebration!
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Yep, that sometimes painful holiday, Valentine’s Day, is almost upon us. While some like to bemoan the holiday, I like to focus on the positives. That means including my dog in the day. I will make sure Henry has a fabulous Valentine’s Day. Of course, I may not do everything on this list, but I can guarantee he will feel the love I have for him. Honestly, that’s a pawfect way to spend Valentine’s Day in my book.
Valentine’s Day is fun. Like with the people I love, I try to do things like this to show my dogs I love them on a daily bases. We celebrate Valentine’s Day, but never really feel the need to do anything huge or elaborate. This year I’m planning on making my dogs some homemade treats, and we’ll probably go for a nice hike or just spend some time playing outside (weather depending).
That sounds like a perfect to spend Valentine’s Day with your dogs. I might do the exact same thing for Henry. Give your pups a pet for Henry and me. 😊💖🐶
These are great ways to let your dogs know that you love them! I tell and show my dogs every day that I love them.
That’s excellent to tell and show your pups you love them daily. Every dog parent should do exactly the same thing. 🐶💖
A great list for Valentine’s Day and every other day too! Doggie cuddles are my favourite type of cuddles.
I totally agree with you! Nothing beats a cuddle with your doggie. They are the best cuddles. I hope you have lots of doggie cuddles today and on Valentine’s Day. 🐶💖🐶
This reminds me I need to get some Valentine’s gifts for my cats too! I can’t have the dogs getting all the treats and fun!
This is a lovely list and I adore the photo at the top too!
I’m glad I reminded you of your cute cats as well. They definitely deserve some Valentine’s Day love as well. Give your cats some extra treats for Henry (he LOVES cats). I do too. 🐶💖🐱
Gosh, I wish I could take credit for that photo. But I did pick it. Does that count? 🤔🤪🤣
For my dog, every day is Valentine’s day. We don’t celebrate it, but I give her my all every day of the years. We do things together daily.
I learned that she has the best time to join her in her favorite activities instead of imposing my ideas on her. So in the summer, we hunt frogs together, and in the winter, we hunt mice together. She loves that.
That sounds like you have a terrific way of showing your dog you love her. It’s really important to listen to your dog and know what she likes and doesn’t. You’re doing a great job! I wish more dog parents knew their dogs as well as you do. Give your pup a tummy rub for Henry and me. 🐶💖😊
I love everything about this. My husband and I are both pretty anti-Valentine’s Day just because it has become such a commercialized thing. However, I could definitely get behind focusing on doing something for the pups to celebrate instead. Maybe I’ll find a new KONG stuffing recipe to try out for them that has a Valentine’s theme of some type lol
I totally agree with you and your husband. Valentine’s Day has gotten a bit commercialized. However, by focusing on our pets for Valentine’s Day we can take it back not dread it so much. I’m glad you liked this idea. Please give all your critters a pet for Henry and me. 🐶💖😊
I feel like I show love to my dogs by taking them on adventures or putting together a fun new puzzle for them! I feel like both of these they get the most enjoyment from. I guess the only thing I don’t like about valentines day is that it’s just one day, and I like showing them I love them a lot more often than once a year. 😉
I agree with you. We should show our dogs love every day. Valentine’s Day gives us a reminder to do it in case there has been any lapse. I do like refocusing Valentine’s Day on our dogs. I’m glad you liked this article. Give your pups a pet for Henry and me. 🐶💖😊
These are really such awesome ideas to wish a dog the Valentines day. Loved it
I’m so happy you found these dog Valentine’s Day ideas helpful. Thank you! 😊💖🐶
I love to get them cute little things for Valentine’s day! After all, they love me unconditionally. Why not express my love in some way back?
I always celebrate all holidays with Henry as well. It makes any holiday much more fun.
What great suggestions for Valentine’s Day! A lot of these things are also important to do all the time but I think sometimes we get busy and forget so doing them all on a special day is a great idea.
Awe, thanks, Lorie! I really appreciate it!
L❤️VE all of these ideas, Terri! And even if someone is not fond of Valentine’s Day, as you said, snuggling and spending time with beloved dogs is THE best! I miss that snuggling and easy walks with mine the most. I felt the most at peace in their loving company. And a Valentine’s date with your dog sure sounds like a fantastic date to me!!! Love with a dog is unconditional – 24/7/365! Happy Valentine’s Day to you and sweet Henry! Sharing this with my readers!
Awe, thank you Dorothy! I agree time with our fur friends is calming and essential for our well-being. I hope you and your family have a very Happy Valentine’s Day as well!
All excellent ideas! I love how you compared sniffing on walks to a good book.
Yeah, I love letting them sniff on a walk as well. It really is their time.
Love these ideas! Did you know that they even make doggy ‘wine’ (it’s made out of fish juice). We served our pups some last year for V-day LOL
I haven’t heard of fish juice for dogs. I bet that was fun!
We actually quite suck at celebrating human stuff. We only remembered our anniversary of being together because it fell on Cookie’s birthday.
Our freshly adopted girls gotcha day and birthday don’t align with any of our anniversaries, so those will be forever missed.
I guess next time we have to find a dog with the right birthday. LOL
I suppose that’s one option. I tend to put things in my calendar with an alarm if I can’t remember, but they are important to me.
You have such a great list of ideas, they’re perfect for showing our dogs how much we love them every day of the week! One of my favourite ways is taking them on outings with me. Once I bought a dog stroller it was so much easier to include them in as many activities as possible.
Thanks, Hindy! I bet the stroller was a game-changer! It’s such a great addition to keep your buddy included in the fun things of life.
Every day is Valentine’s Day when I’m with my cat. But yes, I actually do wish him Happy Valentine’s, and I make sure to give him a little bit extra of his favorite food and even more kisses than usual.
Sounds lovely! I tend to tell Henry good morning, good night, happy (whatever day) and give him kisses on top of his head. I know Henry will get a special treat on Valentine’s Day. Enjoy your your kitty on Valentine’s Day!