We just had an Alice in Wonderland themed birthday for Rory's 1st birthday in August! We held it the dog spa where she attends daycare regularly, and I think it went great. We had races (set up with mini orange cones and streamers), Alice in Wonderland trivia (for the human guests), musical hares (like musical chairs, only we just put doilies on the ground and when the music stopped the dog who wasn't sitting (not so strict on this - just had to be touching and definitely stopped position) was out. The grand finale was when a pinata burst open and tons of mini tennis balls (Rory's favorite toy) dropped out. You can probably base some ideas for Derby's party off those things depending on what his favorite things are. The decor was like a tea party, with pink, blue and metallics setting the theme. A lot of the dogs came in "Alice" costume or simply dressed for a tea party, which I think made it easier on the parents.
My late bullmastiff's birthday was October 22 and I did quite a few Halloween themed parties for him! It was so fun to have him and the other guests in costumes!
As far as the cake goes, the dog spa made the cake for Rory's party, but I do know she used cream cheese for the icing and I have seen several recipies online for doggie cake. For my bullmastiff, I always did (human - I know, bad mom) cupcakes that he could inhale in one bite!
I personally like it better when the party is done like it is for a "human" with dogs kept in mind rather than something that is totally dog-themed, but that is really a personal preferance.
I have tried to attach some pictures, which will hopefully give you some ideas! I have a lot more that need to be uploaded.
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Good luck and please post pictures afterwards!
ETA:
Rory "Alice" 1st Birthday
Those are some of the pictures from the party - quite a few still need to be uploaded.