Learn About All Things Puppy!
National Puppy Day is just around the corner. Let’s celebrate puppies and all the joy that they offer.
You know that there are few things that we love more than doggy holidays, and we know that pawrents love them too. This is why we are so happy to celebrate National Puppy Day, a day that is completely committed to celebrating the adorable bundles of fur that we all know and love. In this article, we will discuss some puppy essentials, including what you need to know to raise a puppy and the more popular breeds for 2022!
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What is National Puppy Day?
National Puppy Day falls on March 23, 2022. This holiday is all about puppies—and we do mean all about them. It is a day to celebrate puppies and their eternal cuteness. It’s a day to post TikToks or Instagram Reels showing your dog’s transformation from puppy to fully grown floof. But, above all else, it is a day to celebrate what puppies bring.
Puppies are sweet and loving beings that can bring so much to our lives. It is the reason why we all love watching videos of people receiving their very own puppies—it’s a magical moment. A single puppy can bring so much unconditional love and affection with them that it can sometimes be almost overwhelming—in a good way. On this day, we raise a bowl to pups around the world and thank them for the videos that cheer us up when we’re sad and the snuggles that make a hard day at work worth it!
The Most Popular Puppy Breeds in 2022
Though being a puppy is always a fashionable choice, there are some dog breeds that get a little extra attention. Some breeds are always popular, while others are gaining their place in the spotlight for the first time. Let’s explore some of the most popular breeds that you’ll see getting more Instagram followers in 2022!
Bulldogs
Bulldogs breeze in and out of popularity on a regular basis. Most people love them for their adorable faces and dense bodies, which can lead to quite a few hilarious circumstances when they run through a slippery kitchen.
These dogs are loving and compassionate dogs that are almost always happy to snuggle up and stay cozy with their owners. They require less exercise than some of the more energetic breeds, making them popular for those who might not have the extra time to go on a two-mile run every single day. They can be wonderful for apartments as well, making them the perfect companion for a lot of us.
Labrador Retrievers
The love for labs is one that has been rooted in society for quite some time because of just how amazing these dogs are. Known for their agile bodies and adorable faces, these dogs have ranked as the most popular dog for several decades in a row, and we all know why.
Labs are gorgeous dogs, but they are also remarkable companions. These dogs can offer all kinds of fun with their bursts of energy and loving nature. Known for their loyalty and physical abilities, labs are always valued members of the household.
Families and individuals alike choose these dogs because they are just plain fun. These often highly intelligent dogs are fairly easy to train, making them highly approachable. They also bring that amazing dog energy that makes them perfect for hiking, swimming, backpacking, and so much more!
German Shepherds
It isn’t a secret that German Shepherds are a very popular dog breed, and we honestly believe that their puppies are a big reason why. Most of us can’t look at a German Shepherd puppy without absolutely melting into a puddle. These pups tend to have adorably oversized ears and paws, giving them a ridiculously cute look that people love. Pairing this with the fact that so many of them go through drastic changes with their ears only makes them that much cuter.
Though German Shepherds are beautiful dogs, that isn’t their only benefit at all. These dogs are known for their keen intellect, which is something to consider before you get one. Plenty of pawrents love the idea of a brilliant dog that can handle complicated tasks, but they forget that these dogs require a lot of engagement and stimulation or that intelligence will quickly turn to destruction.
Considered a “working breed” among dogs, German Shepherds are dogs that need a greater purpose. Some of them will enjoy snuggling after a long day, but that really only happens when they get enough exercise and stimulation. These loyal pups love to spend time with their families, especially if it comes with tricks and treats!
Poodles
Poodles are popular and have been for some time. They have often been considered one of the more fashionable dogs because they are equipped with gorgeous curly fur that would make almost anyone jealous. Born in different colors, these beautiful dogs are loving and compassionate.
The draw of poodles is not just in their adorable look, but also in the fact that they can accommodate owners with different needs. Available in three sizes, poodles can range from loving apartment dogs to full-sized adventure buddies. People love being able to have a cute dog that also fits their housing requirements.
It is important to know that poodles are not just luxury dogs. These pampered pooches are actually quite agile and adventurous, and they love to have plenty of stimulation. More and more rescues are showing up with poodle mixes, and each one is an adorable and fluffy work of art. As if all of this isn’t enough, poodles are also known for their soft fur!
Caring for a Puppy—What Pawrents Need to Know
Adorable little puppies can be so tempting to adopt, but it is important to remember the real cost of all that puppy love. Celebrating puppies doesn’t just mean giving them a home. It means being able to adapt to their needs and provide a wonderful experience as a pawrent. Let’s explore some of the more important considerations that come with adopting and raising a puppy.
It Takes Work
Though puppies are absolutely adorable, it is important to remember that they are living, breathing creatures—and they come with a lot of work. It is only natural to see a small puppy and want to bring them home, but there is a lot more to raising a puppy than the Instagram posts would lead you to believe.
A young puppy can end up needing to go out every couple of hours—day and night. This is important to consider when you are looking at your work schedule or determining how well you will sleep. Like babies, puppies can keep their owners up all night for a variety of reasons.
Puppies can bring us so much joy, but they can also come with quite a few challenges. Remember, puppies are like blank slates with a lot of personality. They will need to be taught how to navigate the world, and sometimes, that can be difficult. You might adopt a puppy that barks, howls, chews up phone chargers, or destroys priceless family heirlooms. It is important to know what can happen and prepare to keep your puppy safe.
It Costs Money
The reality is that raising a puppy can be very expensive for a variety of reasons. Puppies need to get all of their core shots—shots that they will need to get every couple of years for the rest of their lives. This can add up.
Beyond shots, it is important to understand just how much of an investment a dog really is. You will need to buy food, bowls, bedding, and toys—and these are not one-time expenses. They continue to pop up, and they do add up over time.
Every pawrent that adopts a puppy finds themselves spending quite a bit of money while they figure their pup out. This means determining foods that they like and that works well for their needs. It means finding out what kind of toys they like and what kind of treats motivate them. There is a lot of discovery work that comes with getting a new dog, so be prepared for it.
A Good Vet is Everything
When you adopt a puppy, your most pressing long-term concern will always be to find a good vet. Puppies can get into quite a bit of trouble while they are learning about the world. They will eat things that shouldn’t be eaten. They will be exposed to new germs or viruses. They will have accidents while learning how to use their bodies. All of these issues mean a trip to the vet’s office, which is why having a great vet is so important. If you don’t feel like your vet is really committed to your pup, keep looking for a new one.
Do Your Breed Research
Dog breeds matter, even when you adopt a mix from the local rescue. Understanding your dog’s DNA can help you to better understand them, which is why more pawrents are choosing to have their dogs DNA tested.
A dog’s breed can have a small impact on them or a large one, but understanding their genetic makeup can help you to better understand them all the same. Some dog breeds are prone to certain behaviors or require certain levels of stimulation, but that isn’t the only thing that matters.
Your dog’s breed can play a key role in their health, and learning about this when they are young is very important. You can set your pup up for success by researching their breed and adapting their food type and exercise levels to accommodate those needs.
Cute Puppy Outfits for the Celebration
Puppies are cute enough on their own, but that isn’t going to stop us from helping them to be even more cute! Small dog apparel can help to highlight your pup’s cuteness levels almost immediately, and it is also just plain fun to shop for. To ring in National Puppy Day the right way, make sure that you have an outfit that shows just how adorable your puppy really is.
Sailor Dog Dress
Soft and Lightweight
SPRING DRESS
Made from 100% cotton this dog dress is perfect for spring.
Dogs might not have the right to vote, but they certainly play a valued role in our country, which is why we decided to help them show their patriotism in an adorable way. This doggy dress proudly sports the classic red, white, and blue striped pattern. With this cute outfit, your pup will show everyone just how proud they are to be an American puppy living the dream.
Elephant Puppy Costume
#1 Bestselling
DOG COSTUME
Your little cupcake will turn heads in this cuddly Dumbo-inspired costume.
A good puppy costume is an essential for highlighting just how absolutely adorable your dog really is. This tiny puppy costume was made with the goal of making strangers melt at the mere sight of your puppy (if they weren’t already).
With this cozy design, your pup can make everyone gasp with delight at the mere sight of them. Our elephant costume was made to allow dogs a chance to be an even cuter version of themselves—a small puppy body inside a stuffed elephant costume that looks just like an adorable stuffed animal. This comfortable and seriously cute costume is perfect for your pup’s first Halloween, or for allowing them to show their puppy cuteness on this special day!
The Takeaway
National Puppy Day is one holiday that we will always be happy to celebrate because there are few things that we love more than puppies and the amazing dogs that they grow into. This holiday, remember to really take the time to celebrate the puppies in your life (even the older lifelong puppies who never want to grow up). This is a day to celebrate love, affection, and cuteness, so do it in a way that suits your favorite pup. It only comes around once a year, so be sure to make the best of it!
Until next time, thank you for reading!
About the author: Gabrielle is the loving pawrent to adorable pups Willow and Dilla. Growing up surrounded by dogs, she always dreamt of having her own. Willow and Dilla came into her life and changed everything. Now, she's crazy about pampered pooches, and her perfect day involves dancing with her husband, dressing up her furbabies, and cuddling them to sleep. For Gabrielle, life is all about spreading love and joy with her adorable canine companions by her side.
