It’s the best day ever for your little buddy – and it’s gonna be a whole lot of fun for you, too! The Day of the Dog returns to Voltaire Street in San Diego this Sunday, October 12. This is a free, family-friendly event featuring fantastically fun dog races, pool parties, and plenty of awesome vendors.
The Day of The Dog also serves as a fundraising event for the Just Love Animals Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare and community engagement. Their goal is to bring together compassionate individuals and organize events that support both people and animals in need.
What to expect from The Day of The Dog in San Diego

- Enter the HOWL-O-WEEN costume contest for a chance to win $500 cash – yes, you can absolutely do matching costumes with your doggie!
- Pups can cool off at the 100 foot pool party, with on-duty lifeguards – there’ll be pool floaties, a D.J., and refreshments, too.
- Win treats for a year from @tiltedbarnpetco.
- Your buddy can enjoy a free snack sampling.
- Don’t miss the the dog pie eating contest.
- Join the Size Matters contest — crowning San Diego’s biggest, smallest, and hairiest wiener dogs.
- Jump into the 360° photobooth.
- Get those paws cleaned up with a bath from @dogbeachdogwash.
- Visit rescues and meet adoptable dogs.
- Get a custom pet portrait from @theartistoutpost.
- Shop from over 70 local vendors.
The adorable races

One of the most exciting and entertaining parts of the event is the races – you definitely don’t want to miss them! Sign your puppy up for the one that fits best, or simply watch and feel that dopamine rise. Here’s a breakdown:
- French Bulldogs – 12:00 PM
- Fast Dogs – 12:30 PM
- Wiener Dogs – 1:30 PM
- Corgis – 2:30 PM
- Doodles – 3:30 PM
📆 When: Sunday, October 12, from 12 PM – 4 PM
📍 Where: Voltaire St (between cable and bacon)