January 8th, 2020 by Becky Calvert

It’s a new year and we’re sure you already have a few resolutions up your sleeve. It’s the perfect time to set yourself some goals and to make sure you’re ready to get the most out of this year. So, where does your pooch come into that? Have you included your furry friend in any of your resolutions this year? If not, we’ve got you covered. Below are 5 easy and simple changes to make in your dog’s life to make sure they’re even happier in 2020!

1. Longer Walks

If one of your resolutions is to get fitter, this is hitting two birds with one stone! When we come home from work, taking your dog on a long walk can seem extremely unappealing. However, it’s easy to forget that this is most likely their favourite part of the day and for them, a long walk will not only increase their fitness and help them sleep better, but it will also give them extra quality time with you – which we’re sure they’ll love! It’s also a chance for you to get fitter and enjoy some gentle exercise, whilst your pooch is free to sniff around and enjoy being outside in the crisp and clean air.

However, we do know that realistically, not everyone has the time to take their dog on a long walk every day and some dogs may not need a particularly long walk. If this is the case, then try and aim for a longer walk 3 times a week or just more quality time with your pooch in general – we’re certain this will get your dog off to the best start this year.

2. Organise Walks with Other Dogs

Of course, this depends on the dog that you have. If your pooch isn’t good with other dogs perhaps skip this step but if they love other dog’s company, definitely look into dog walking groups or even meeting up with friends to walk your pooches together. Just like us, many dogs love having company and people to play with – especially other dogs! It’s also a way to encourage you to walk more and for longer, as you can catch up with friends and even make new ones in the process.

There are loads of dog walking groups online that are open to join and this way, your dog can socialise with other dogs every week which is sure to make their 2020 happier!

3. Make Grooming an Enjoyable Process

We’re sure that grooming your pooch is just as much as a chore for you as it is for them. It can be time-consuming and difficult to do – especially if your pooch doesn’t enjoy it very much. However, it’s good for their health (click here to find out more) and will keep them clean and healthy so it’s super important. If you’re finding grooming to be a constant battle, start from scratch and go back to basics.

Try to make grooming a relaxing process where possible by using a gentle shampoo for their skin and brushing their fur slowly and delicately to avoid them feeling any pain or anxiety. In time, this may start to make them dread grooming a little less – making 2020 a little bit easier for both of you.

Top tip: if it’s extremely difficult to wash your dog every time they start to become a little smelly, why not buy some doggy deodoriser to cover the odour and keep them smelling fresh and clean in-between washes?

4. Add Some Variety

Many of us are creatures of habit when it comes to looking after our dogs; we give them the same food, treats and toys to play with every day and then wonder why they look at us a little bored and unappreciative sometimes! Don’t get us wrong, we’re not suggesting that you cook a new meal for your dog every day or give them a new toy to play with, but we do think it’s important to vary their treats and food a little.

Whether you use your treats on rotation or treat them to a new toy a few times a year, we’re sure that your dog will appreciate a little variety in their lives in 2020 – a little bit of change really can go a long way!

5. Teach an Old Dog a New Trick

Whether your pooch is excellently trained or mischievous, the act of trying to teach your dog a new trick is the thing that counts. Although some dogs may not completely get it by the end, you spending quality time with them and using positive reinforcements will make your dog’s day – especially if it’s something that they used to love doing but they’ve now grown up and you’ve forgotten about.

You never know, it may even make your naughty pooch well-behaved, as well as giving them the quality time and attention your furry friend is begging for. Although you may not be able to teach an old dog a new trick… you can definitely both have fun trying!