How to host a birthday party for your dog

June 3, 1:28 PMDenver Dogs ExaminerCourtney Taylor

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Photo: Tail Waggin Celebrations

Throwing a birthday party for your dog can be a lot of fun! From an small gathering to an all-out bash, read on to discover what you need and where to find it.

1. Select your location
   For a small party, a fenced-in back yard might be the best place to host the party. However, if you plan to have several dogs in attendance a park could be the best venue. Call your local dog-friendly public park or designated "bark park" for more details about regulations and possible reservations.
2. Choose a theme
   Select a fun theme for your party. Throw a red carpet party, requiring formal doggy attire or a Hawaiian party, complete with grass skirts and leis!
3. Create the guest list
   Carefully consider which dogs will be put on the list. Try not to invite dogs with known behavior problems. You might also consider keeping the breed size consistent; if the party is for a small dog, invite small guests.
4. Send out invitations
   If you're feeling creative, make the invites yourself! Have fun with it by adding photos, bows, and stickers. Create a goody bag of treats and attach the invitation with ribbon. Invitations can also be ordered or purchased at several card stores. Include any necessary details about the location. Are leashes required? Are clean up baggies provided? Require an RSVP to better estimate food needs.
5. Prepare party supplies / decorations
   Feel free to display your artsy side with homemade decorations. Or, head to your local party supply or craft store to purchase balloons, tableware, party hats, etc. to really get the party started! You can also order your supplies online. Don't forget to create some doggy bags for the four-legged guests to take home!
6. Plan the activities
   Schedule some party games. How about a dog style piñata? Have some good-natured contests to see who has the best trick, longest tail, or most colors in their coat. Play "guess that breed", which can be a lot of fun with the mixed breeds in attendance. See who can fetch the ball the quickest. Don't forget to give out some lip-smacking awards!
7. Choose the goodies
   There are several places in Denver that are happy to bake your dog's birthday cake. While some stores will have premade cakes available, order yours in advance to customize your cake. Three Dogs Bakery has a wide selection of gourmet treats, cupcakes, and birthday cakes that range in size and price. Mouthfuls dog boutique will whip up a cake topped with a brand-new chew toy. Or, make the cake yourself! Just be cautious of over-feeding and over-indulging the party pooches. And, don't forget to provide plenty of water bowls for thirsty pups. Remember to provide some human food, too!
8. Have a doggone good time!
   Dog birthday parties are becoming increasingly more popular among pet owners. Host one yourself and find out why! Of course, all owners should ensure that the dogs are enjoying themselves, playing well, and remaining safe. Have a barkin' birthday bash!

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