• Throw a party to celebrate another year with your best friendTwo spitz-dogs in studio on a neutral background image by Ulf from Fotolia.com
  
  Dog birthday parties are exciting celebrations that your pooch is sure to love. A party is the icing on the cake for a dog reaching another milestone. A new year full of new beginnings with your best friend can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Dog birthday parties can be simple or elaborate depending on your preferences and what you think your dog would like.
  
  

Cake

• Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, even in small amounts, so avoid making a chocolate cake for your canine friend. Instead make your dog a special cake out of biscuits. Dogs can eat canned dog food, biscuits and other treats. Place a layer of four large biscuit bones on a pan and smother the bones with wet dog food. (Choose a brand that you know your dog loves.) Continue stacking layers of biscuits followed by layers of wet dog food until you have a good sized cake. Sprinkle other dog treats on the top.
  
  Your dog will have fun digging in this cake, and if you invite other dogs, they can share the cake. Only invite dogs that have been introduced to your dog. You don't want to invite friends with dogs that will start a fight. Put party hats on all the dogs at the party. If your dog is a messy eater, introduce the cake outdoors in the backyard.
  
  

Doggy Bags

• Make little doggy bags for each adult guest and dog who comes to your party. Include favors that people like in the bags for your guests and fill the doggy bags full of dog treats and other things dogs like, such as small chew toys. The doggy bags and decor of the party can also be decorated in dog print balloons and other decorations. You can find dog party decorations at your local party supply store or online. (See resources below to view party supplies.)
  
  

Location and Activities

• The location of the party and the activities is also a major factor to consider for your dog's birthday party. Choose an open location such as a large backyard or park to have your party. Encourage safety rules and ask each owner to be responsible for his dog. Have chew toys and balls available for activities and play time with the dogs. Have food and drinks for your guests and provide plenty of water for all your canine friends as well.