When New Year's Eve comes around, we all make resolutions which we hope will make the next year better than our last in some way. Here are five New Year's resolutions for dog owners that are easy to sustain throughout the year and will improve the lives of both you and your dog:
- The first New Year's resolution for dog owners should be to regularly exercise your dog. Dogs that are confined to a part of the house for long periods of time without exercise become bored and frustrated. A lack of exercise can lead to behavioural problems such as your furniture being destroyed and separation anxiety as well as your dog being hyper on the few walks you do have, whilst pulling on their lead. If you walk your dog for a minimum 20-30 minutes twice a day he will be less likely to get bored whilst confined to the home and more likely to settle with a chew toy or treat. Your walks will progressively improve as your dog will become calmer.
- Next is the commitment to train your dog which we all know is essential for basic obedience. Your dog doesn't know what you want from him unless you show him and an owner who gets frustrated and shouts will be scary and could lead to further problems. Although this may be a common New Year's resolution for dog owners, many people don't stick to it through lack of determination, patience and time. However, if you take the time and dedication to show your dog basic commands then it will help build a strong relationship between you, keep you both safe on walks and gives you a foundation for teaching your dog more advanced skills later.
- Another important New Year's resolution for dog owners is healthy eating. Healthy eating is essential for both humans and dogs if you want to stay fit and healthy and live to an old age. It is no different for dogs and in fact is a major factor in preventing certain diseases in dogs such as diabetes and heart disease, which are more common now than ever because of the unhealthy diets we feed our dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you on the best diet for your dog and it is advisable to stick to it as much as possible. It is perfectly fine to give treats as long as they are part of your dogs daily food intake and healthy.
- This leads nicely on to the next New Years resolution for dog owners, obesity! How many dogs do you know who are overweight, sometimes by a large amount. Being overweight is a contributing factor in disease which as well as being unpleasant for your dog and shortening his life, is also bad news for your wallet as you will spend a lot of time, and money, at the vets. Feeding healthy treats occasionally is fine as long as they are part of a daily allowance. Plenty of exercise will help to burn off those calories of course, but his weight should always be watched. Any dog that struggles to run around because he is overweight is not happy as he is likely to have other problems such as pain in the joints, trouble breathing and plenty more.
- The last New Years resolution should be to have fun with your dog. By incorporating fun and games into a daily routine you will not only be teaching him basic commands but also strengthening the bond between you. A dog is a faithful companion and will always be there for you no matter what, so enjoy your time together and have plenty of fun!
