The 4th of July is when the American spirit – American pride – is always most alive. Every American celebrates his and his country’s independence by way of barbecue, parades, concerts, political speeches and spectacular fireworks. It is customary to display the star spangled banner as he proudly relishes his freedom and his rights as a citizen. As Founding Father John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail – “The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.” He may have gotten the date wrong, which resulted in confusion among historians, but he was definitely right that the independence from Great Britain would be honored with much pride and pageantry. Heck, not even dogs can resist the 4th of July celebrations! Look at these handsome dogs decked in their all-American attire. Word of caution, though, the 4th of July is also reported as that day of the year with the most number of dog disappearances. To keep your dog safe and comfortable throughout the fanfare, read (and follow!) these seven tips. After you’ve taken to heart each tip, marvel at the sight of these adorable dogs:
1. “Not trying to skirt the issue here, but I do look pretty, don’t I?”
2. “You may call us the Barking Fathers of Independence. Hmm, anyone seen the other five?”
3. This better had been animal-friendly dyes, but definitely cute nonetheless.
4. “I can see clearly now – through these stars and stripes.”
5. This good-looking dog is decked out in stars, stripes, and peace.
6. “How was I supposed to smile when I could see them finishing all the corn dogs on the table?”
7. Another dog forced to have his picture taken while the humans snacked on burgers and barbecue
8. So here are the other five Barking Fathers of Independence.
9. You gotta fight for your right to paaaarty!
10. It seems like this dog is just really proud to be American.
11. They may not have chosen the dog to symbolize the country, but it doesn’t keep this one from gleaming with American pride.
12. Uhm, so, would it be racist if I said, “You all are so white”?
13. Seriously, where do these dogs get their sunglasses? ‘Cause I totally want to get my pair!
14. All the festivities seem to have exhausted these adorable patriotic puppies.
15. Look who found his way to the refreshments!
16. Who wouldn’t want to see this kind of 4th of July parade?
17. So somebody decided to bust out his patriotic tie on this most special day.
18. “The important question is ‘when will I be free from these suckers?!’ LOL, just kidding, I love these little buggers!”
19. O! Say does that star-spangled banner yet wave o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
20. This handsome family believes American independence is serious business.
21. “I would like to take this opportunity to look all pretty and find a partner in life with whom to celebrate each 4th of July from this point forward.”
22. “Hey, what’s going on now? Why is everyone laughing? Come on now, I could use a little help here!”
23. “Anyone who’d want to carry me on his shoulders so I can watch the parade?”
24. Being free means being able to sleep soundly at night. That, this American Bulldog knows very well.
25. 4th of July face on fleek 
26. An adorable little PDA from these patriotic pups
27. No dog shall be chained to the shackles of slavery – liberty for all! And more walks at the park, please.
28. Wave that beautiful American flag, boy.
29. “Yo, human! Where’s my American flag at?”
30. The bikini is not exactly the best fit, but it’s a free country, right?
31. Salute, Uncle Sam!
