National Love Your Pet Day: Treat & Toy Ideas for Every Pet

Your pet doesn’t check the calendar to love you. They just do it—every day. The tail thumps, the soft purr starts up, the chirp says “hi,” and even the quiet fish shows up at the glass right on time.

Let’s return the favor on February 20th. National Love Your Pet Day is your reminder to slow down, show your pet some extra care, and turn ordinary moments into something special. One special treat, one new toy, one small comfort upgrade—sometimes that’s all it takes to make your furry friend feel like the world’s favorite.

What is National Love Your Pet Day (February 20)?

National Love Your Pet Day is all about giving pets extra attention—play, comfort, enrichment, and a small reward. Think of it as a national love your pet reminder: love looks like daily care, not just one big gesture.

6 Easy Ways to Celebrate Love Your Pet Day

Pick one or mix a few. Keep it simple.

1. Do a “yes day”: more of their favorite thing (walks, cuddles, toys, or calm time).
2. Plan a mini play session: 10–15 minutes of focused play.
3. Add enrichment: a puzzle, foraging activity, or a new safe item in their space.
4. Upgrade comfort: wash bedding, clean bowls, refresh tank/cage areas.
5. Give a special treat: small portion, species-safe, and supervised.
6. Capture the moment: a photo and a short note about what you love most.

Now let’s celebrate love your pet style—with ideas for each type of companion.

Treat & Toy Ideas for Every Pet (with HardyPaw picks)

Dogs

Do this today

• Take a “sniff walk” and let your dog choose the route when it’s safe.
• Add a 3-minute training game (sit, touch, or “find it”).

HardyPaw picks

• PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist ’n Treat: a treat dispenser that turns snack time into a puzzle.
• Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Dog Treats: small, soft rewards that work great for quick training wins.

Cats

Do this today

• Try a short “hunt” game: wand toy → pounce → calm finish.
• Offer a cozy window spot or a warm blanket nap zone.

HardyPaw picks

• PetSafe Peek-A-Bird Automatic Cat Toy: movement play that helps keep indoor cats active.
• Inaba Churu Lickable Treats: a bonding-friendly, creamy treat for your cat.

Birds

Do this today

• Rotate one cage toy to make the setup feel “new.”
• Do 5 minutes of gentle target training or step-up practice.

HardyPaw picks

• A & E Cages Happy Beaks Silly Links Bird Toy: bright links that support climbing and play.
• Higgins Sunburst Treat Sticks (Island Fruit): a fun, foraging-style treat stick for parrots and conures.

Fish

Do this today

• Add a safe hide or plant to reduce stress and boost exploration.
• Keep the tank routine calm (steady light schedule, gentle feeding).

HardyPaw picks

• Tetra TetraColor Tropical Flakes: a quality daily food option for many tropical fish.
• Tetra PlecoWafers: a targeted option for algae eaters and bottom feeders.

Small Pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas)

Do this today

• Scatter-feed part of a meal to encourage natural foraging.
• Add a chew-safe toy to reduce boredom.

HardyPaw picks

• Oxbow Simple Rewards Baked Treats (Apple & Banana): a small, sweet reward made for many small animals.
• Oxbow Enriched Life Wooden Puzzler Toy: encourages exploring, chewing, and play.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Do this today

• Double-check heat, humidity, and UVB (the real love language).
• Add one enrichment element (a new hide, branch, or texture).

HardyPaw picks

• Zoo Med Can O’ Silkworms: a convenient protein treat for many reptiles and amphibians.
• Zoo Med Reptile Electrolyte Soak: a “spa day” style hydration support option.

Horses

Do this today

• A slow grooming session (face/neck/withers) and a calm hand-walk.
• Add a simple stable enrichment moment (safe stall toy or treat holder).

HardyPaw picks

• Omega Fields Nibblers Low Sugar & Starch Apple Treats: a mindful choice for horses needing lower sugar options.
• Stud Muffins Variety Pack Horse Treats: a fun mix for rewards and bonding.

Quick Treat & Toy Safety Rules

• Start small with any new treat (especially on Love Your Pet Day, when it’s tempting to overdo it).
• Supervise chews and toys, and size up if your pet is between sizes.
• Match the treat to the pet (fish, birds, reptiles, and small pets should stick to species diets).
• If your pet has health issues, check with a vet before adding new foods.

Wrap-up

On February 20th, keep it easy: time, attention, and one thoughtful upgrade. A little play. A little comfort. One special treat. That’s more than enough to make your pet feel loved.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I celebrate National Love Your Pet Day if I’m busy?

A: Keep it simple on February 20th: give 10 minutes of focused attention. A quick play session or calm grooming still helps you show your pet love.

Q: What’s a good “special treat” idea for dogs on Love Your Pet Day?

A: Try a treat puzzle so your dog works for the reward. The PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist ’n Treat is an easy “fill-and-play” option.

Q: My dog gets bored quickly—what toy helps them stay engaged?

A: Look for toys that dispense treats and make your dog think. The PetSafe Busy Buddy Chuckle Treat Dispenser adds sound + movement for longer play.

Q: What’s a simple treat idea for cats that also feels like bonding time?

A: Lickable treats are great for a calm “treat and chat” moment. Inaba Churu Hairball Control Chicken is a popular lickable option for cats.

Q: What toy is good for indoor cats on February 20?

A: Go for movement-based play that triggers chase instincts. The PetSafe Peek-A-Bird Automatic Cat Toy is an easy way to add interactive fun.

Q: How do I celebrate birds safely (without stressing them out)?

A: Keep it gentle: a new toy rotation, short training, and quiet attention. A simple enrichment pick is the A & E Cages Happy Beaks Silly Links Bird Toy (great for climbing and play).

Q: Can fish celebrate Love Your Pet Day too?

A: Yes—focus on routine and environment. A small amount of quality daily food (instead of overfeeding) is a good idea; Tetra TetraColor Tropical Flakes is one option.

Q: What’s a good treat for small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs?

A: Choose species-safe treats and keep portions small. Oxbow Simple Rewards Apple & Banana Baked Treats are made for many small animals and work well as a once-in-a-while reward.

Q: Any Love Your Pet Day treat ideas for horses?

A: A short grooming session plus a small reward is perfect. If you want lower-sugar options, Omega Fields Nibblers Low Sugar & Starch Apple Treats are one choice; for variety, Stud Muffins Variety Pack is a fun alternative. (If your horse has diet restrictions, check with your vet.)