National Dress Up Your Pet Day is celebrated every year on April 11th. It’s a fun, lighthearted holiday dedicated to dressing up your furry (or feathered, or scaly) friends in cute, comfortable outfits and showing off their style. Whether it’s a dog in a tiny sweater, a cat rocking a hat, a guinea pig in a gown, or even a bird with a little accessory, the goal is to have fun, bond with your pet, and share adorable photos.

Quick Facts

• Founded in 2009 by Colleen Paige, a celebrity pet lifestyle expert and animal behaviorist (she’s also behind National Dog Day and National Cat Day).
• The day encourages pet owners to pamper their animals with safe, comfy costumes while promoting pet adoption and animal welfare — many of Colleen’s holidays aim to spotlight homeless pets.
• It’s not just for dogs and cats; bunnies, hamsters, reptiles, and more can join in if the outfit fits safely.

How to Celebrate

• Pick out (or make) a costume that’s safe: It should fit properly, not restrict breathing, movement, vision, or hearing, and avoid anything that could overheat or irritate your pet.
• Have a mini photoshoot or “catwalk” moment at home.
• Go all out with matching outfits for you and your pet (because why not?).
• Share pics online, social media blows up with these every April 11th!
• If your pet hates costumes, no pressure — just give them extra treats and love instead.