20 of the Cutest Pups on National Dog Day

On August 26th, it’sNational Dog Day! Also known as World Dog Day or National Dog Appreciation Day, this celebration is for recognizing the number of dogs that need to be rescued every year. It also serves to acknowledge the dogs that work to save lives, bring us comfort, and keep us safe. For all dogs everywhere, we salute you with a sampling of our 20 cutest pups:

The Alaskan Malamuteis one of the oldest sled dogs in the Arctic, with a super thick coat and muscular body, plus an affectionate personality.

Photo Via Flickr by paul+photos=moody

Like Lassie,Collies are devoted and graceful, as well as highly intelligent, with a fully luxurious coat that needs great care.

Photo via Flickr by Gary_Troughton

Friendly, mellow, and the “gentlemen of the dog breed,”English Setter loves a lot of exercise to keep its body and mind in shape.

Photo via Flickr by marcia-oc

All-red in color, theIrish Terrier is a bold, stouthearted, and speedy dog, known as “the daredevil” because it’s so active.

Photo via Flickr by Kathleen Tyler Conklin

Totally sweet and patient,Newfoundlands are devoted dogs who are famously wonderful companions that enjoy being somewhat active.

Photo via Flickr by Tracy Lee

Don’t let this little guy’s face fool you — Miniature Schnauzers may look kind of grumpy, but they’re very obedient, friendly, and smart, making them a very popular dog breed.

Photo Via Flickr by Reuben Yau

Beagles are miniature foxhounds with short coats. They love lots of exercise and being active because as scent hounds, they’re used to hunting.

Photo via Flickr by B, K & G

Another member of the hound group,Dachshunds are curious and spunky, originally developed in Germany to hunt badgers.

Photo via Flickr by Soggydan

Smart and adaptable, but not terribly athletic, theFrench Bulldog features distinctive bat ears, a compact build, and a smooth coat.

Photo via Flickr by Stijn Hosdez

By contrast, the hypoallergenicPortuguese Water Dog is athletic and adventurous, willing to keep up on land or in the water.

Photo via Flickr by 2Tales

A perennial favorite, theGolden Retriever is well-known for being devoted, friendly, outgoing, and great with families and people in general.

Photo via Flickr by RD_Elsie

With a charming, playful, and gentle disposition,Malteses are part of the toy group and have long and beautiful white coats that need daily care.

Photo via Flickr by nicwn

Alert and ready for action, the inquisitiveRussell Terrier is a highly intelligent and confident breed that loves playtime.

Photo via Flickr by Emery_Way

With such a regal name, it’s no wonder theCavalier King Charles Spanielhas a glamorous coat — but it’s also known for being gentle and affectionate.

Photo via Flickr by stirwise

Lively and full of personality,Pomeranians are active toy dogs of Nordic descent that love to please.

Photo via Flickr by Thanate Tan

Boston Terriersare a non-sporting dog breed that are friendly, amusing, compactly built, sturdy, and native to America.

Photo via Flickr by swambo

The Glen of Imaal Terrier, a medium-sized and long, double-coated working terrier, is named for the region in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland where it was developed.