As dog owners, we have the responsibility to ensure that our furry friends thrive and are generally happy.
With a new year looming, this is the perfect opportunity for a fresh start for both you and your dog, and looking at some new year’s resolutions for dogs might give you some ideas.
Perhaps you already have some resolutions you’re working on for the new year, but this might inspire you to add just one more to that list!
Better Eating Habits
A new year is also the perfect opportunity to start looking at better eating habits. Perhaps the holidays have taken their toll on you both you and your dog, and you’re in need of looking at eating greener and cutting down on treats just a bit.
Perhaps this is the year you’re more determined on going the extra mile when it comes to feeding your pup the best natural food, without a lot of unnecessary additives.
Not only is it good for your dog’s stomach, skin, and fur, but also for your conscience!
Allow me to give you these recommendations if you’re looking for some inspiration for the best possible food and best treats.
More Frequent and Longer Walks
Besides looking at nutrition, you should of course also focus on movement and exercise. And while you obviously don’t have to strap some running shoes on your dog and go nuts from the first day of the year, you should create a plan that allows you to gradually increase the difficulty and challenge you get by going outside and exercising.
Perhaps you, my dear reader, might also benefit a bit from some added movement, and then you should obviously just tag along with your dog on these exciting new adventures!
Go on more walks each week, and add one or two longer trips every week. You could also bring your dog with you to the dog park where there’s a lot of room for sniffing around and meeting new playmates. Your dog will certainly love it, and seeing him happy is sure to reflect on you also!
Most veterinary clinics offer the option of weighing and monitoring your dog to ensure proper results. If you’re struggling with cutting down the weight, of your dog that is, remember that one of the most common problems in dogs is a decreased metabolism.
If that’s the case, you can end up fighting against those added pounds for a very long time, and usually in vain. If you experience that, you should contact your vet who will certainly help you plan what you should do next.
More Quality Time
Perhaps the ultimate new year’s resolution for dogs and their owners is to spend more quality time together. Even if it’s just the aforementioned walks in the park, or some playtime and belly scratches, it’s something that your dog will absolutely love.
And whatever you decide on is the best for your dog is the correct answer, as there isn’t anybody else in the whole world that knows your dog as well as you.
The most important thing is that you’re present both physically and mentally. So put your phone away, and shower your furry friend with your complete and undivided attention.
This will also give you a break from the online world, allowing you the relax ins ways that we often forget in these modern times, and it will allow you to really appreciate some quality time with your best friend.
Regular Vet Check-Ups
Regular check-ups for dogs are essential for maintaining their health and well-being. Here are some reasons why:
- Early detection of health issues: Regular check-ups allow your vet to detect and treat any health problems early on before they become more serious. This can improve your dog’s chances of a full recovery and increase its lifespan.
- Vaccinations: Regular check-ups provide an opportunity for your dog to receive any necessary vaccinations, which can protect them from serious diseases such as rabies, parvovirus, and distemper.
- Parasite control: Your vet will check for and treat any parasite infestations, such as fleas and ticks, which can not only harm your dog but also spread to humans.
- Dental care: Your vet will also assess your dog’s dental health and suggest any necessary treatments to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
- Weight management: Your vet will check your dog’s weight and suggest any changes to their diet or exercise routine to help them maintain a healthy weight.
- Customized care: Regular check-ups allow your vet to get to know your dog and provide personalized care based on their specific needs and medical history.
Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is an important aspect of a dog’s overall health and well-being. Here are some ways to provide mental stimulation for your dog:
- Puzzle toys: Offer interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders, that require your dog to use their problem-solving skills to access treats.
- Training exercises: Engage your dog in training exercises, such as obedience training, agility, or scent work, to challenge their mind and provide mental stimulation.
- New experiences: Take your dog on new and varied walks, introduce them to new environments and people, and provide opportunities for them to explore and play.
- Playtime: Engage in playtime with your dog, such as fetch or tug-of-war, to provide physical and mental stimulation.
- Scent games: Play games that challenge your dog’s sense of smell, such as hide-and-seek with treats or toys.
- Interactive toys: Offer toys that require your dog to push buttons or levers to access treats or rewards, such as electronic interactive toys.
Mental stimulation activities can help improve your dog’s mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and prevent behavioral problems.
Providing mental stimulation is important to keep your dog happy, healthy, and entertained. Incorporating various activities into their routine can help prevent boredom and enhance their quality of life.
Some of My Favorite Products For Dog Owners
I hope this article has helped you just a bit in everyday life as a dog owner. Being a dog owner for more than 25 years myself, I’ve tried an abundance of different products with varying success, but these products below are some that I can highly recommend to every dog and their owner without hesitation!
These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. But it’s products that I use daily myself, and I have nothing but praise for.
Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be hard, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. But since 2015 when the company was founded, I’ve been using Ollie Petfood. With their product being tailor-made to suit every dog’s specific needs, and as my dogs absolutely love the product, I’m pretty sure I’ve found a product I will continue to use for many years more. If you use my link you can get 50% off your first order.
Dog Training: If you’ve ever owned a puppy, you know that they require a lot of training to grow into a well-behaved adult. Brain Training for Dogs has helped me immensely with the mental training part of raising a dog, and it’s something I strongly recommend you consider.
Grooming: If you have a dog in your home, you’re going to need a brush, and for this, I recommend a Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. For that price, you simply can’t beat this brush for everyday grooming.
If you’re looking for the most up-to-date recommendations, check out my recommended products section that I’ve created to help every dog owner!
