International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day

International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day is held on February 23. The first dog biscuits were developed in the mid-19th century by American manufacturer James Spratt. This event in the third decade of the month February is annual.

Unfortunately, it’s not clear who and when came up with the idea to create Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, but at least we know the story behind the creation of these crunchy dog treat.

Mr. Spratt introduced the first commercially-prepared Dog Biscuits in England in approximately 1860. Spratt, an electrician from Cincinnati, in 1850 traveled to England to sell a new type of lightning conductor he had invented. In London he saw a group of dogs eating discarded hardtack, the cheap, tough biscuits carried on ships and known to sailors as "molar breakers." This gave him the idea of making biscuits especially for dogs.

After conducting some experiments, inventive Spratt formulated the first baked cake-like pet snack: a combination of wheat meals, vegetables, beetroot and beef blood. He patented his new invention, kept the recipe secret and started a successful business, selling dog biscuits to English country gentlemen for sporting dogs.

A British public company took over Spratt’s formula and production began at a U.S. operation in about 1890. (The Holiday is also known as National Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day in the U.S.)

Spratt dominated the American market until 1907, when F. H. Bennett, whose own dog biscuits were faring poorly against those of the larger company, had the idea of making them in the shape of a bone. His 'Maltoid Milk-Bones' were such a success that for the next fifteen years Bennett's Milk-Bone dominated the commercial dog food market in America

Today, dog biscuits are often used in training and as rewards in the show ring. There are even special types of biscuit which clean dogs’ teeth – so giving your best furry friend a treat can help keep him healthy by maintaining your dog's oral health!

Dog biscuits have evolved over time. In an effort to differentiate their products, marketers have produced dog biscuits with shapes as varied as animals, people, bacon strips, and even fire hydrants. Since most treats are also sold as healthy food supplements, dog biscuits are typically fortified with vitamins and minerals essential in a dog's diet. Varieties for overweight dogs and puppies are also available.

How to celebrate International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day:

Treat your dog with his or her favorite biscuits. Better still, bake them at home – they will surely appreciate it! There are a lot of recipes of homemade dog biscuits.

World's Largest Dog Biscuit:

The world's largest dog biscuit weighs 279.87 kg and was baked to be 2,000 larger than average by Hampshire Pet Products from Joplin, Missouri, USA.