New Year’s Resolutions To Enhance Your Bond with Your Dog

Most of us start out the New Year by making resolutions -- like losing weight, saving money, spending more time with the family.

As pet owners, we should consider adopting a resolution or two that will improve our relationship with their pets. That’s especially true for dog owners.

If our dogs could speak, they would ask us for three things: more play, more affection and more exercise. By making one or two of the following New Year’s Resolutions, you will help satisfy those needs, and enhance your bond with your pet:

1. Commit to one-on-one time. It’s easy to let a busy schedule get in the way. But dogs are social animals and thrive on interaction with the family pack. Give your dog just 10-15 minutes of undivided attention each day – playing, training, even cuddling on the couch -- and you’ll notice improved behavior.
   
   
2. Give him regular exercise. Dogs need exercise as much as we do but, during the winter, not many of us want to take that long walk. Without a regular work-out, some dogs may develop problem behaviors – like chewing furniture or scratching walls. Since they don’t have the option of going to the gym, it’s up to us to bundle up and take them out for a daily walk or run.
   
   
3. Play games to stimulate his mind. Dogs need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise. If your dog has mastered basic training skills, introduce some fun tricks and activities -- find a hidden treat, retrieve a toy or play volleyball with a balloon. Dogs enjoy learning new skills and love pleasing you.
   
   
4. Find time to socialize. Dogs thrive on interaction with other dogs. If it’s too cold or snowy to head to the dog park, try a meet-up group or a training class where both you and your pet have the opportunity to spend time socializing with friends.

For information about winter training classes and playgroups, visit the Our Locations page to find the Best Friends near you.

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