For International Dog Day (Friday, August 26) we’re putting the spotlight on your beloved family pets to celebrate all of the happiness those perfect pooches bring to your life.
Founded in 2004, the awareness day celebrates dogs of all breeds and shines a light on those across the globe who still need to be adopted or re-homed.
Ahead of International Dog Day’s arrival this weekend, we called on North East families to share their own photographs and messages in honour of their animals.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate how much happiness, love and warmth pets bring into our homes.
Thank you to everyone who contributed a photo – we’re just sorry we can’t share them all!
. NEP International Dog Day collage NEP upload.jpg
It's International Dog Day - so let's celebrate some pets from across the North East. Photo: UGC
. Triple threat
The whole gang! Celebrating this year's International Dog Day with TJ, Freddie and Max. Photo: Alison Robson
. Friendship
Dudley the dog and his human brother Adam celebrate International Dog Day with this sweet picture. Photo: Claire Henderson
. Happy boy
It's International Dog Day - and Sonny the Whippet is ready for walkies! Who's coming? Photo: Tori Haz
. A princess
Sun's out, tongue's out for International Dog Day. Xena enjoys some time in the fresh air. Photo: Helen-Louise Rowe
. Here come the girls
Tess and Elsa the Rottweilers and Dora the Boston Terrier cuddle up for an International Dog Day picture. Photo: Michelle Clark
. Here to help
Three-year-old Mindy is an assistance dog - thank you for your service, Mindy. We salute you on International Dog Day. Photo: Jodie Williams
. Spot the dog
Peek-a-boo! Alfie has some fun in the long grass for International Dog Day. We can see you Alfie! Photo: Tracey Newham
. Time to play?
Cuddles for Lilly on International Dog Day. She knows she's cute! Photo: Fi Angela
1. Triple threat
The whole gang! Celebrating this year's International Dog Day with TJ, Freddie and Max. Photo: Alison Robson
2. Friendship
Dudley the dog and his human brother Adam celebrate International Dog Day with this sweet picture. Photo: Claire Henderson
3. Happy boy
It's International Dog Day - and Sonny the Whippet is ready for walkies! Who's coming? Photo: Tori Haz
4. A princess
Sun's out, tongue's out for International Dog Day. Xena enjoys some time in the fresh air. Photo: Helen-Louise Rowe