How to Throw the Ultimate Dog Party

Guests

Your guest list can include only immediate family, or every dog on your block, the key is to determine the size of the location where the party is to be held and your budget.

Invites

Dogs: It is important to invite dogs your pup already knows; friends from a play group or doggy day care, dogs from your neighborhood, or other dogs your pooch plays with. It is best to not try and introduce a new dog at this time.

People: Of course, invite doggie owners along with your canine guests, but you also may want to include other friends and important people in your dog's life. As with any party, invite people who you enjoy spending time with and your party will be a success.

Be realistic about the number of dogs and people you can comfortably handle, as well as if they will all play together nicely. Nothing can spoil a party quicker than an aggressive dog or a small child who is afraid of dogs. And when thinking of your budget, remember that for every canine guest, you may be adding two additional human guests.

Location

Here are a few ideas for your party:

Doggie Day Cares: I can't think of a more perfect place to hold your event. These specialty businesses were built for your pooch and offer a great venue for your event - especially if your dog's birthday happens to fall during the cold or raining months. Talk with your local doggie day care, they are likely less busy during the weekend days and could accommodate your event. Be sure to ask about any vaccination requirements they may have or other paperwork that your guests may need to sign. Also talk with them about staffing, they may be able to assist you in watching the dogs and ensuring a smooth party.

Local Parks: Many cities now have off-leash areas and parks and many even have picnic areas. It is important to double check with the park before to make sure you can hold your party there, but an outside romp through the park is a great way to spend the afternoon.

Your Own Backyard: Of course the answer to where could be as simple as your own fenced backyard. Fire up the grill and set up some games and activities and you've got a great casual get-together.

Food

Make sure you have enough water and other drinks on hand for all your guests, including the pups. Provide individual water bowls or several scattered around. You can even personalize small water bowls to send home as party gifts for each dog.

A cake is a must of course. I made pupcakes for the dogs and cupcakes for the people. To make sure the cakes weren't confused, I made the doggie cakes in a mini muffin pan. This also ensures that the pups don't get upset tummys from too many treats. It is also important that you make sure people are aware of what is in the treats you make in case one of the dogs has a food allergy.

With a little planning and preparation, you can throw a wonderful party for your favorite furry friend. Good Luck!