The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and think about the habits we want to change or improve. While many of us are focused on personal goals, let’s not forget about our furry friends! Here are some New Year’s resolutions for that will make a big difference in your pup’s health and happiness in the coming year.
Focus on Your Dog’s Nutrition
A healthy diet is one of the easiest ways to support your dog’s overall health. This year, take a close look at what’s in your dog’s food. Are you feeding them the right type of food for their age, breed, and activity level? If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your vet for advice. You might also want to reduce the number of treats or switch to healthier options. And, remember to keep treats in moderation—just like us, dogs can overdo it when it comes to snacking!
Brush Up On Your First Aid Knowledge
Accidents happen, and being prepared can make all the difference. Another practical resolution is to make 2025 the year you refresh your doggy first aid knowledge. Brush up on how to handle common situations like cuts, burns, or insect stings. You should also learn how to perform basic first aid and lifesaving techniques, such as CPR. There are plenty of online courses, books, or workshops that can help you feel more confident in an emergency. Knowing what to do when things go wrong can save a lot of time if your dog gets hurt or sick.
Make Grooming a Habit
Dogs need regular grooming, no matter their coat type. Regular brushing keeps their fur shiny and reduces shedding, and it’s also a great way to check for skin issues. Some breeds need more frequent grooming than others, so make a habit of brushing your dog’s coat weekly (or more often if needed). Don’t forget about nails, ears, and teeth! Keeping up with grooming ensures your dog stays comfortable, clean, and healthy.
Update Your Dog’s ID
If your dog’s ID tags are old, faded, or no longer accurate, now’s the time to update them. Identifying your dog is an important step of making sure Fido returns home if they ever get lost. Make sure your pup’s tags have a current phone number and are still legible. In addition to tags, consider getting your dog microchipped if they’re not already. Microchips are a reliable backup to tags and provide a permanent form of identification that can help reunite you with your dog in case they get lost. A quick trip to the pet store or your vet for a microchip update could bring you peace of mind for the whole year.
Schedule a Vet Visit
It’s easy to let regular vet visits slip off the radar, especially if your dog seems perfectly healthy. But regular check-ups are essential for preventing issues down the road. Whether it’s an annual exam, dental care, or vaccinations, getting your dog’s health checked routinely ensures they stay happy and healthy. If you haven’t done so recently, schedule a check-up now to get a head start on 2025!
Get More Exercise
We all know dogs need exercise, but sometimes it’s easy to get stuck in a routine or let walks slip because of a busy schedule. This year, commit to getting outside more with your dog. Whether it’s longer walks, more trips to the park, or new hiking trails, increasing your dog’s physical activity will benefit both their health and yours. Plus, those daily walks are a great opportunity to bond. If your dog is really energetic, try incorporating more playtime with fetch or tug-of-war to keep them active.
Improve Fido’s Training
Training doesn’t stop after your dog learns the basics like “sit” and “stay.” This year, make a resolution to work on their obedience or teach them some fun new tricks. Whether it’s reinforcing the “come” command, mastering “leave it,” or learning to walk on a leash, training helps improve your dog’s behavior and makes outings more enjoyable.
If your dog has any behavioral issues, such as separation anxiety or leash reactivity, consider seeking help from a professional trainer to work through them. Our expert trainers at Sit Means Sit are here to help you and your pup meet your goals. Check out our training programs to start the year off right!
Help Dogs in Need
If you’re passionate about animals and want to give back, consider making volunteering at a local shelter or rescue on of your resolutions. Whether you help walk dogs, donate supplies, or offer your time, it’s a great way to support the pets in your community. If you’re in a position to do so, consider donating to an animal charity that supports causes you care about. Your love for dogs can go beyond your own pet and make a difference for others in need.
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