National Hug Your Dog Day: Ways To Celebrate Even If Your Pooch Isn't A Hugger KEY POINTS There are some pets that may get stressed if they're hugged You can still celebrate the occasion even if your pets aren't comfortable with hugs It's the perfect time to cuddle with pooches because April 10 marks National Hug Your Dog Day. But what can you do if your pet isn't exactly a hugger? Pet-related holidays are always fun ways to express appreciation and love for our animal companions. On this day, the spotlight is on hugging pet dogs, which National Today explained releases the hormone oxytocin, also called the "cuddle hormone," in both humans and dogs.