New Year's Resolutions for You and Your Dog
As the new year begins, many of us take the opportunity to set goals for the months ahead.
While it is evident that traditions similar to present-day resolutions have existed for quite some time, it can still be tricky to decide how to fit it into your routine. A lot of people commit to challenging tasks like learning a new language or playing an instrument or perhaps the resolutions on your list are simply to visit more with loved ones, spend more hours in the gym, change up your routine, or eat a little healthier.
This year, consider your pets when making New Year’s resolutions! Just like us, your furry friends can benefit from improvements in their lives like wellness routines, but they will need your help. We are more likely to keep up with our own resolutions if we have someone to keep us on track, and your dog is the perfect companion on your journey
So as everyone develops that “new year, new you” attitude, here are some ideas for New Year’s resolutions that can help promote a happier, healthier year for our four-legged friends.
Resolution 1: Daily Walks
One of the joys of having your furry friend being a part of your everyday routine is the daily walk. You get some fresh air, exercise, and a chance to explore the neighborhood. Surprisingly, this is not a routine for every dog owner!
Many people believe that a run around the yard can be all the exercise that your furry friend needs. However, a daily walk is not just all about physical needs, it also helps with mental stimulation, prevents boredom, and creates the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with your favorite pooch.
In this new year, try mixing up the path of your walks depending on how you are both feeling. This can be taking a slow walk, brisk walk, even allowing your dog to choose the route by sniffing out something interesting. Not only will this keep your dog happy, but then you can start the New Year with a fitter you!
Resolution 2: Learn Something New
Want to teach an old dog a new trick? This can be the perfect time. Just as we find learning something new rewarding, so do our furry friends.
Teaching your dog a new trick has enormous benefits. Teaching your dog tricks is a great way of building a brilliant bond with your dog whilst having lots of fun with them! Tricks can also allow your dog to use all different parts of their body. It will also mentally stimulate them, helping to keep their minds healthy and happy. Using extra time to teach your dog tricks can also prevent unwanted behavior when dogs are bored and is an ideal method of bonding with your best bud.
What’s more, you will learn truly how smart your dog is at any age and get to show off your new training skills to your loved ones.
Resolution 3: Incorporate Real Ingredients
Just like us, the new year is a great time to make a pact to incorporate healthy, real ingredients into your dog’s diet. Our Beg and Barker family offers human grade meats that are USA-sourced and USDA-inspected. Every snack is made using the time-honored method of air-drying to preserve the meat in order to retain the nutrients and flavors with no need for fillers.
No artificial preservatives are used because the treats are made in small batches to ensure a fresh and high-quality product. Also depending on the activity-level of the breed, there are also multiple different choices between chicken, turkey, pork loin, and beef liver to suit your dogs every need.
Resolution 4: Become a Pet Internet Celebrity
What can be cuter and more entertaining than famous dogs? Every year, more and more dogs take over social media. From tricks and funny expressions to fashion gurus, help your dog create internet buzz.
There are so many pets like Grumpy Cat, JiffPom the Pomeranian, Doug the Pug, and Pumpkin the Racoon that boast more Instagram, Tik Tok, and YouTube followers than some humans could never achieve.
The only thing that is holding them back is the lack of opposable thumbs. Make an account on any social media platform and help them out by videotaping and writing captions on their behalf using your shining sense of humor.
Resolution 5: Take Care of Oral Health
To start off the new year right, one of the best things you can do for your pet is to establish an at-home dental care routine. Practicing good pet oral care can help prevent tooth loss, bad breath, prevent oral pain, prevent organ damage, and can prevent worsening dental disease.
Sometimes a very slow introduction to teeth brushing, such as once a day, can be helpful. If this does not work, introduce dental treats or dental toys.
Additionally, it is important to have your veterinarian evaluate your pet’s teeth.
Resolution 6: Try A New Recipe
With the new year approaching, it is easy to get into a rut with food, adding something new to mundane meals can really add some excitement. Well, it is the same for our dogs!
Even though our favorite pooches may be content to chow down on the same kibble day after day, adding something different can keep your pet motivated. This can be especially useful if teaching your dog a new trick is on the top of your New Year’s resolution list.
There is no shortage of recipes for do-it-yourself dog treats, but if you are unsure where to start, try adding our Beef Topper to any meal. The topper is meant to boost taste and add hearty protein. It is also a great option for picky eaters.
