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Like most national food holidays, National Dog Biscuit Day might not have a glittering backstory, but that doesn’t make it any less fun—or important. Celebrating the bond between dogs and their humans through the tasty treat of dog biscuits, the day acknowledges a long history of canine snacks that dates back more than a century.
The first commercial dog biscuits were made in the late 1800s, primarily to provide a convenient and nutritious snack for working dogs—many of whom helped farmers herd livestock. It’s no surprise that the idea of giving dogs treats evolved from practical necessity to something a little more indulgent. Eventually, these dog biscuits became a staple of the canine culinary world.
In 1860, an American by the name of James Spratt invented the first known dog biscuit in London. As the story goes, Spratt, who was a lighting salesman, noticed that sailors in the harbor were feeding their dogs leftover food scraps. He decided to create a product specifically designed for dogs, made from beef, wheat, and vegetables. His invention—often called “Spratt’s Patent Meat Fibrine Dog Cake”—was marketed as a healthy alternative to table scraps and quickly became a hit.
From there, the dog biscuit market blossomed, with various shapes, sizes, and flavors emerging, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. In 1931, the first commercial dog biscuit factory opened in the United States, further cementing the role of these delicious treats in the lives of pet owners everywhere.
But the love for dog biscuits didn’t just stay in the hands of corporate giants. As the pet industry grew, so did the desire for homemade, all-natural treats, leading to the rise of “DIY dog biscuits.” Here are two recipes - kitties included! - from our friends at the ASPCA.
BONUS BISCUITS: Our Executive Director, Bianca, says her little guy Kash gobbles these biscuits up when his grandma whips him up a batch. Here's the Kash Approved Recipe...enjoy!
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