National Mutt Day is celebrated on December 2, and again on July 31, to honor mixed-breed dogs. Mutts make up a large share of the dogs waiting in shelters, and the day encourages people to adopt them, celebrate their unique looks and personalities, and support rescue organizations. Whether your dog is part beagle, part mystery or 100 percent lovable, it's a day to give your mutt some extra attention.
History of National Mutt Day
People have kept dogs for thousands of years, but most purebred breeds as we know them were developed in the 1800s, when dog shows and breed clubs became popular. For most of history, the majority of dogs were simply mixed, bred for work or companionship rather than appearance.
The word 'mutt' is American slang that dates back to the early 1900s, possibly short for 'muttonhead', a teasing word for a foolish person. Over time, it became an affectionate term for mixed-breed dogs.
National Mutt Day was founded in 2005 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate who also created National Dog Day and National Cat Day. She chose two dates each year, July 31 and December 2, to give mixed-breed dogs extra chances to find homes. Today, many shelters hold adoption events on Mutt Day, and DNA tests have made it popular to discover the breeds behind a mutt's personality.
Why National Mutt Day Matters
Mixed-breed dogs fill shelters across the country, and many wait longer for homes than puppies or purebreds. The day encourages people to consider adoption first.
Mutts are as loving, smart and trainable as any purebred, and every one is truly one of a kind. Celebrating them helps challenge the idea that a dog needs a pedigree to be special.
The day also promotes responsible pet ownership, such as spaying and neutering, microchipping and regular vet care, which help reduce the number of homeless animals.
How to Celebrate National Mutt Day
- Adopt a mutt: visit a local shelter or rescue.
- Foster: give a shelter dog a temporary home.
- Donate: give blankets, toys or food to a rescue group.
- Share your mutt: post a photo of your mixed-breed dog with a fun breed guess.
- Try a DNA test: discover the breeds behind your dog's personality.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, host a 'guess the breed' photo contest with coworkers' mixed-breed dogs or collect supplies for a local shelter. In classrooms, students can learn how traits are inherited, make toys for shelter dogs from old T-shirts, or write stories about a mutt hero. At home, families can spoil their own mutt with a new toy or long walk, visit a shelter to learn about fostering, or donate old towels and blankets. Before adopting, talk as a family about the time, space and costs a dog needs.
Fun Facts About National Mutt Day
- National Mutt Day is celebrated twice a year, on July 31 and December 2.
- Colleen Paige founded the day in 2005.
- Most modern dog breeds were developed in the 1800s.
National Mutt Day FAQs
When is National Mutt Day?
National Mutt Day is celebrated on December 2 and again on July 31 each year.
Who founded National Mutt Day?
Animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige founded National Mutt Day in 2005.
What is a mutt?
A mutt is a mixed-breed dog whose parents are of different or unknown breeds.
Are mutts healthier than purebred dogs?
Some studies suggest mixed breeds have lower risk of certain inherited conditions, but every dog needs regular vet care.
Why adopt a mutt?
Many mixed-breed dogs wait in shelters for homes, and each has a unique look and personality.
How can I celebrate National Mutt Day?
Adopt, foster, donate to a rescue or share a photo of your own mixed-breed dog.