2023 is finally upon us. The New Year has swung back around in a blink of an eye. Many of us are setting our new years resolutions, most likely including a healthy diet, fitness regimes and on the whole, just getting back into routine.
But what about our dogs? Dogs love routine and it’s important to keep them fit, healthy and stimulated whether that’s a lovely, long daily walk or a play date with Teddy, the golden retriever from across the road.
Why not try and engage your dogs into your new years resolutions? We are more likely to keep our goals if we have our furry friend by our side. As well as keeping your dog happy and most importantly, healthy!
It’s also important to get your dog back into routine or even try something new. Are there things you want to improve on as a dog parent?
Here’s a number of ‘Doggy resolutions’ for you and your furry friend to try:
1) Self Care
Self care is so incredibly important for your mental health and overall well-being and I’ve really noticed a difference when I haven’t included it in my daily routine. There are so many things you can do even on a tight schedule. Everyone has their own form of self care. Personally I love anything from a quick 5 minute face mask to an hour restorative yoga practice with candles and sage, just before bed.
Let’s try to include our dog into these practices while having fun such as taking your dog to doggy yoga, soothing baths, sunset strolls or why not try a dog sound bath (my favourite)?
It’s easy to keep it simple too, try “Alexa, play relaxing doggy music” while you snuggle up on the sofa together and read a book.
2) Cutting down on junk food
Over the festive period, most of us indulge in a lot of our favourite Christmas treats. Lot of cheese and chocolates for me! This is the time where we want to cut down on the junk food and start adding more nutrition to our diet.
Let’s do the same for our dogs!
I know I struggle with my dog, Pepper’s puppy eyes when she asks for table scraps, it’s so hard to resist! I always try to make sure she’s in her bed when I sit down for a meal.
Feeding your dog human food that is high in fat, sugar and calories leads to obesity and can be harmful in the long run, causing conditions such as diabetes and arthritis. Not to mention the foods that are toxic for them including chocolate, grapes and quite a few you may not know about - shorturl.at/EOP06. If unsure, it’s best to google it before giving it to your dog.
Healthy snacks for your pooch are a good alternative to the high calorie treats, such as apples, carrots, banana, blueberries, cucumbers and more! You can even freeze them too for a longer lasting treat.
3) Become more adventurous
This is a chance for you and your bestie to discover new places, book a trip in the countryside or visit a new national park you’ve always wanted to go to. It’s a great way to start burning off the Christmas puddings, get fit or look after your mental health and take in the beautiful scenery while making memories with your dog and getting some fabulous photos!
Comments