It’s that time of year again – resolutions! Have you thought about yours? Does it involve your dog?
Here are 10 New Year’s resolutions for dog owners to give you some ideas. (I’m doing number 6!) What’s yours? Tell us in the comments!
This year, I am going to…
#1 – Take my dog to the vet more often
Those yearly check-ups are important. And taking your dog in at the first sign of an issue can save your dog discomfort and you money.
#2 – Finally take that training class
Better late than never! And you definitely can teach an old dog new tricks, so get out there and learn something.
#3 – Go on more adventures with my dog
Make 2019 the year you visit all those fun, dog-friendly places you read about. With more and more destinations becoming dog-friendly, it shouldn’t be hard to pick a place (or two or three!) that you will both enjoy.
#4 – Get more exercise with my dog
Don’t just throw the ball for your dog to run and bring back to you. This year, make it a point to exercise with your dog (isn’t that one of the reasons you got her in the first place?) Go on a bike ride, take a walk, or a run, just get outside and move.
#5 – Learn more about canine body language
This is a great resolution for anyone, not just dog owners. Learning your dog’s body language can really help you understand your dog better and strengthen your bond – not to mention making training easier. You expect him to learn your language, shouldn’t you learn his?
#6 – Take a picture a day of my dog
This is especially fun if you just got a new puppy! But even if your dog is older, this is a great way to capture all those little moments. Then, at the end of the year, create a collage, photo quilt or even a calendar!
#7 – Volunteer at a local shelter or rescue
This one may not involve your dog, but it will help dozens of others. It’s a great way to make new friends too! Here are 15 totally FREE ways you can help your local shelter!
#8 – Visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Seriously, it’s life changing. I went to Best Friends in Kanab, Utah last year and I will be back again. You can stay there as a vacation and volunteer – it’s an amazing experience to see what they are doing there.
#9 – Remember to clean my dog’s stuff more often
A great way to help keep everyone, human and canine, more healthy, is to clean your dog’s stuff – blankets, towels, beds, toys, etc. – more often. Pick a day of the week and have that be “cleaning day” when you wash everything and throw away any broken or hazardous toys.
#10 – Learn to make my own dog toys
This is a fun one and perfect for the cold, wet months ahead. There are lots of tutorials online on how to make everything from fleece tug toys to treat dispensing ones. Just Google what you want to make or check out Instructables.com.
#11 – Regularly Exercise My Dog’s Mind
Puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog’s mind young and fresh. By allowing them to complete a puzzle, you boost their confidence and keep their bodies and minds active, both of which are critical to healthy aging. One popular puzzle toy is the Sniff Diggy mat. (currently sold out everywhere, but you can join the waitlist here)
#12 – Get Serious About Your Dog’s Nutrition
Many pet owners are surprised to learn that their dog has become overweight (see chart here). In addition to preventing obesity, consider upgrading your dog’s food or adding a few supplements like glucosamine for joint health or omega-3 for skin, coat, and allergy support.
Toledo, United States.
