Six New Year’s resolutions for you and your dog

Six New Year’s resolutions for you and your dog

Happy New Year! We hope that you and your pets had a lovely time over the festive period and you’re enjoying 2020 so far. Did you set any new years resolutions? Perhaps you’ve broken them by now? Even if you have, there is no excuse for giving up. Every new day gives us a new chance to start again and be a better person - and a better pet owner - and there are so many health benefits to be gained from simply spending time with our furry friends, why wouldn’t you decide to make 2020 your best year together? 

If you’re looking for a little motivation, it’s not too late to make some positive changes and we’ve put together a few new years resolutions for dog owners that are guaranteed to help both you and your pooch to become healthier and happier in 2020 - with plenty of fun along the way too! One of the main problems when it comes to keeping resolutions is time, so just make sure you set aside some time each day for your dog and you’ll be far more likely to succeed.

Dalmatian with plants: Photo by Daria Shevtsova from PexelsDalmatian with plants: Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels

1. Do more walking (or running) together

Many of us set resolutions to become healthier or get more exercise at the start of each year and what better way to do this than in the company of you dog. If you have an activity tracker such as a Fitbit then you can set some activity goals to achieve with your dog, based on time, distance or the amount of steps taken. Walk a little further or for a little bit longer each day – or even run together. There’s nothing more motivating than a dog bounding along beside you and if you get into a regular routine then your pooch will become the ultimate motivator, encouraging you to get outside and move more at certain times of the day. Even if you don’t feel like stepping outside at first, you will always be glad you did once you get going. If possible invest in some good quality shoes for walking or running and a good breathable anorak for whatever the weather throws at you so you’ve got no excuses to get outside. You can thank us later!

Dog running at the beach: Photo by Leon Liu on UnsplashDog running at the beach: Photo by Leon Liu on Unsplash

2. Spend more time together

If you’re out of the house all day working a 9 to 5 then your dog might become very lonely and sad. Make it your goal this year to spend more time with your dog wherever possible, whether that is staying and snuggling up together (which is incredibly beneficial for your health) or taking them out with you more often – to pet friendly cafes, to the pub, on days out or holidays.

Dog Cuddles: Photo by Marek Szturc on UnsplashDog Cuddles: Photo by Marek Szturc on Unsplash

If your dog is particularly well behaved then it might be worth asking your boss if you can bring them into work with you a few days a week – or work from home. Make time to play together rather than treating your dog like part of the furniture. The time you have with your dog is precious and it is important that you don’t take it for granted. Spending time with pets has been proven to reduce stress. It will also strengthen your bond and both of you will feel happier and healthier as a result.

Dog at a picnic: Photo by Helena Lopes from PexelsDog at a picnic: Photo by Helena Lopes from Pexels

3. Experience a new place

Most dogs (and humans) love to explore so consider taking them to some new places this year – whether that’s some new walking routes, or to a dog-friendly attraction. Many National Trust properties allow dogs into their grounds and gardens.  Maybe your dog has never seen the sea, been on the beach, swum in a river or travelled by boat. Make a list of the things they haven’t done that you think they might enjoy doing. It is easier than ever to find dog-friendly holiday accommodation so why not head to the countryside for some decent quality time together.

Dog exploring: Photo by Artem Beliaikin from PexelsDog exploring: Photo by Artem Beliaikin from Pexels

4. Learn something new

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but this simply isn’t true. If your dog is particularly unruly, why not sign up for some obedience classes. These are a great way to socialise with other dogs (and their owners) make friends and work on the basics, sit, stay and recall. For the more adventurous, why not check out a doggy agility class and get them jumping through hoops.

Dog agility Photo by Angel Luciano on UnsplashDog agility Photo by Angel Luciano on Unsplash

If your dog is more of a homebody, then you can teach them some party tricks from a book (or a YouTube video) and get them to rollover or shake paws in exchange for some tasty treats. Learning new things together can be great fun, as well as being good for your dog’s brain and strengthening the connection between you.

Dog swimming: Photo by Murilo Viviani on UnsplashDog swimming: Photo by Murilo Viviani on Unsplash

5. Make time for your health 

Sometimes in our busy lives we can put our own health on hold as we focus on other things and once in a while we can fall behind with our pet’s healthcare routine too. Make sure your dog is up to date with their vaccinations or boosters and if they have any minor health issues that need checking out, make an appointment to see the vet. This could be anything from lumps and bumps in older dogs that may need to be tested or removed, claw clipping, teeth cleaning or a check up. Make sure you are keeping up to date with flea and worm treatments too - and whilst you’re at it, make sure you are on top of your own health issues. If you’ve been putting off seeing the doctor about a dodgy mole or you’ve missed regular check up, get it sorted.

Poorly Pup: Photo by Matthew Henry on UnsplashPoorly Pup: Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash

6. Get into a good grooming routine

Finally, if you have a particularly hairy dog - or one that just seems to attract dirt - then regular grooming and bathing will help to keep them healthy and also provide you with some bonding time too. A regularly scheduled bathing routine will help them overcome any fears they may have over bathing and regular brushing will help to maintain their coat. Once you’ve got your dog looking their best you could enter them into some shows. If you have a cross breed then look out for local ‘novelty dog shows’ which have fun classes for things like the waggiest tail, most appealing eyes or dog that looks most like its owner. These can be a fun family day out. If you need a dog bath, pet dryer or grooming brushes to use in your new grooming regime, take a look in our online shop where we have everything you need for home or professional grooming with lightweight and portable dog grooming equipment.

Dog hug: Photo by Eric Ward on UnsplashDog hug: Photo by Eric Ward on Unsplash

Have you made any resolutions for you and your dog this year that we haven’t mentioned? Let us know in the comments section below and do let us know how you get on!

(Main Pic: Dog running on the beach: Photo by Magdalena Smolnicka on Unsplash)

 


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Tags