Dog New Year's Resolutions: 5 Ideas for a Happier Pup | Pupford

Now that we're into the new year, humans all over the world are making plans and new goals for a successful and happy new year ahead. Let's look at some dog New Year's resolutions, too!

Whether you’re starting a new fitness journey or planning a big career move - it's nice to start things off fresh!

Why not include your pup in these plans?

In the new year, it’s time to set some resolutions for both yourself and your furry best friend! This could mean better behavior, a healthier lifestyle or even checking off a list of new adventures.

Some of these plans will require things like changing up their eating habits, focusing on training and implementing new rules around the home.

Here are some New Year’s resolution ideas for you and your dog this year!

But, first... 2 quick polls:

5 Dog New Year’s Resolutions for a Happier Dog

So as you work on your own resolutions, let's dive into how you can include your pup as well!

Of course, this article isn't comprehensive, so get creative and come up with some new habits to help your pup form.

Here are 5 dog New Year's resolution ideas:

1. Better behavior
2. More exercise
3. Better sleeping habits
4. New adventures & activities
5. Healthy eating

Let's look at each resolution below. 👇

Better Behavior

I know you love your best pal no matter what, but are there a few behaviors you feel they can improve upon?

Maybe they need help with leash walking, jumping on visitors, keeping calm when people walk into the home or when other dogs approach - whatever it may be, this year seems like a perfect time to work on better behavior!

And with the help of Pupford's free and premium training courses, we are here to help!

A great way to get started on this resolution is implementing a training program that both you and your pup can follow on a day to day basis. Our 30 Day Perfect Pup training class is a great way to get started!

In 30 days you’ll learn how to train and implement better habits for your pup (and yourself!). And one of the best ways to track your days is through the Pupford app.

Check it out here!

Looking to improve on more than the basics? We've got you covered there as well!

For help nailing down recall (or come when called), check out the Recall Mastery Course.

Trying to overcome separation anxiety or home-alone problems? Check out the Dog Separation Anxiety Training Course.

Have a goal to improve your pup's impulse control? Check out 21 Impulse Control Games.

More Exercise

The first thing on many people’s resolution list for the new year is a gym membership or a new exercise routine.

Have you considered including your pup in this goal?

Not only will your pup benefit from some extra exercise, but including them can help you stick to your own goals!

Start with your morning routine!

Instead of a quick potty run outside or opening the door to let your dog out for his morning business, grab the leash and go on a walk around your neighborhood!

Use a tracking device such as a health app on your phone, a FitBit or Apple Watch to set a goal for yourself and your dog’s walk.

Maybe it will start as a 10-minute walk, or a specific distance (such as around the block or .5 mile). Whatever you decide is best, just try to improve each day!

According to LiveStrong.com, there are many exceptional benefits of walking in the morning to improve your mind, body and overall health!

The benefits include attitude improvement, shedding pounds, a clear mind, improved appetite, help with depression and more!

If this list of human improvements excites you, imagine all of the benefits for your dog! They will love spending time with you in the a.m before work and enjoy the extra exercise!

Better Sleeping Habits

Does your dog sleep in your bed?

Some experts encourage dog parents to steer clear of this habit! If your dog has been sleeping in your bed, you may not have realized but your sleep could be suffering!

Dog snoring, moving, getting up and down off the bed and taking up a ton of room under the covers could be severely affecting your good night’s rest (Not to mention the dog farts, right??). As much as we want to cuddle with our favorite pal, it’s best for both you and your pup to have your own sleeping quarters.

As a resolution, change up your sleeping arrangements! (Of course, some people would rather stick with the puppy cuddles at night and we can't blame you.)

Grab a super comfy, fluffy bed for your pup and place it in your bedroom next to or near your own bed.

Begin training your dog to sleep on his own and develop the habit.

Zak George, our favorite training expert, has a great video to help with this!

New Adventures & Activities - A Mutually Beneficial Resolution

No matter what part of the world you live in, there are plenty of new adventures and activities to do with your pup!

Make a list of all the new adventures you’d like to experience with your pup and check them off throughout the year!

Here are some great ideas:

• Local flat hikes
• Waterfall hikes
• Walks on a bike path
• Walks on a beach path
• Run on a dog-friendly beach [find your local dog-friendly beach here]
• Visit new dog parks
• Bike rides (small dogs ride in a basket or in a carrier, bigger more energetic dogs can run on the side of the bike!)
• Dog-friendly breweries and/or wineries
• Visit new dog-friend restaurants
• Create an indoor agility course [learn how to build one here]
• Snow sledding or skiing
• Indoor dog parks
• Attend sporting events
• Visit friends (with or without animals!)
• Dog yoga & meditation

Getting outdoors, whenever you can, with your pup will help them live a longer, fuller life. But while the weather is chilly, indoor activities can be a great addition to your agenda as well!

Healthy Eating

Looking to make an improvement in your own eating habits?

Have you considered making the same changes for your dog?

The benefits of a healthy diet for your dog are endless, including more energy, thicker, smoother coats, and better joint and muscle health.

Do you know the ingredients in your dog’s food and treats? How often are you feeding them?

See the tips below for improving your pup’s eating habits!

Feeding Times: Although there’s no real rule on how often to feed your dog, the general rule of thumb is twice per day - morning and evening. However, younger dogs who are still growing may need up to 4 or 5 meals a day! Make sure to consult your vet on the best eating times for your dog’s health!

Healthy Treats: Feed them healthy treats, to help keep their energy (and attention!). Try a treat with very few ingredients and calories! Look for treats that have all-natural ingredients and are small enough to keep in your pocket for training and rewards. It also helps if they do not need to be refrigerated!

Vitamins & Supplements: Just like you, your dog or puppy needs their daily vitamins! Vitamins are a great way to help your dogs grow strong! For younger pups, try a joint supplement to help them start building strength and cartilage around the joints. This will help in the future to prevent pain and weaknesses while running and playing!

Dog New Years Resolutions Recap

Feeling motivated? I sure am!

One of the big keys to keeping resolutions is to write them down. So, at the bare minimum, leave a comment below with your dog's New Year's resolutions.

We hope you and your pup have an amazing holiday and a happy New Year!

Again, if your resolutions include improved behavior be sure to sign up for 30 Day Perfect Pup today!