New Year resolutions and healthy habits for dogs

“New year, new you” is a favorite saying this time of year. Clarifying the changes you want to make in your life can help you be more intentional as you move into the new year. Our furry friends can benefit from resolutions, too. At Playful Pack, we’re happy to help you and your best friend develop healthy habits that can stick for a lifetime.

Pawsitive Resolutions for a Pawsitive New Year
1. Eat a healthier diet.
About 60% of dogs are overweight or obese. For dogs, losing weight isn’t about looking more fetching. Those extra pounds can put them at a significant risk of major health issues, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and arthritis. The first step in managing or maintaining your dog’s weight and helping them achieve a healthy weight is ensuring they have a healthy diet.

• Skip the scraps: “People food” isn’t just fattening for dogs but can also pose risks to your pet, leading to everything from mild stomach upset to pancreatitis.
• Treat judiciously: Treats can be a powerful ally for training and promoting desired behaviors. Opt for healthier snacks like apple slices, baby carrots, and homemade pet treats whenever possible.
• Quality matters: Kibble forms the base of your dog’s diet. Invest in the best quality you can afford to keep your dog healthy from the inside out.

2. Move more.
If exercise is at the top of your own resolution list, you’re not alone. Your dog could likely use some more activity, too. Dogs need to move to stay healthy: Activity is good for their joints, helps them maintain a healthy weight, and can build their bond with you.

3. Visit the vet.
Even healthy, fit, young dogs should visit the vet at least once a year. Older dogs, dogs with health problems, and some others may need to visit their vets more frequently. Your vet will recommend an appropriate check-up schedule based on your dog’s individual needs.

A vet check is also a great time to learn about any necessary changes to diet and activity levels, and it gives you a chance to ask questions about behavior issues, bonding, and preventive care that can help your dog stay healthy and happy. Finally, ask your vet to scan your pup’s microchip and ensure the chip has not migrated significantly and that the information is still current. If your dog doesn’t yet have a chip, ask your vet to place one. Pets with microchips are dramatically more likely to get back home if they’re lost than pets without microchips.

4. Overcome the dog-itude with boredom busters.
January brings not just resolutions but also long, dull winter days and cabin fever. Incorporate new activities into your dog’s routine to break up that boredom. While this can include big activities, like camping or hiking, you can also opt for winter-friendly outings, such as visiting a dog-friendly cafe.

Consider playing hide-and-seek, using snuffle mats, or adding dog daycare activities to their routine a few times a week. At Playful Pack, our dog daycare is packed with fun activities, including bacon-scented bubble play, disco “pawties,” and tunnel fun.

5. Keep pawsitively clean.
Brushing your pet regularly distributes oils evenly throughout the fur, resulting in a softer, shinier coat and reduced shedding. Regular bathing can help keep your dog comfortable and your home smelling fresh and tidy. Nail trims ensure your dog can walk comfortably. At Playful Pack, we offer grooming packages for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Whether your pup needs a routine bath or prefers a “day at the spa,” we’ve got just what you need.

Regardless of which resolutions you decide to incorporate for your pup, we can help you stick with them. Contact Playful Pack today to learn more or schedule a daycare visit.

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