There’s something magical about the New Year, isn’t there? It’s like opening a brand-new notebook—full of possibilities and room for fresh starts. For me, it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and think about how I want the next year to look for me and my dogs. After all, our lives are so intertwined, and resolutions feel much more meaningful when they’re about making life better together.
That said, sticking to resolutions can be easier said than done. I’ve had plenty of grand plans that fizzled out before February (haven’t we all?). But over the years, I’ve learned some tricks for setting goals that actually stick—and I’d love to share them with you.
1. Why Make Resolutions?
For me, resolutions are about hope and intention. They’re my way of saying, “I care about making things better.” With my dogs, that could mean finding new ways to connect, tackling training challenges, or carving out more time for fun. Resolutions aren’t about being perfect—they’re about progress, one small step at a time.
2. Set Realistic and Specific Goals
One thing I’ve learned is that vague goals don’t get us far. Instead of saying, “I’ll train more,” I try to set clear, bite-sized goals. For example, this year I’ve resolved to practise loose lead walking with Trixie for five minutes every day. It’s manageable, it fits into my routine, and it builds momentum.
3. Focus on Enjoyment
Let’s face it—resolutions are easier to stick with when they’re fun. I love doing agility with my dogs because it’s something we all genuinely enjoy. Think about what brings you and your dog joy. If your dog loves exploring, why not resolve to find a new walking route every week? When it’s enjoyable, you’re much more likely to keep it up.
4. Plan for Success
Good intentions need a solid plan. If I want to improve Lilly’s waits whilst out on walks, I’ll make sure I have tasty treats ready and keep training sessions short and positive. Breaking goals into small, actionable steps makes them feel doable and less overwhelming.
5. Be Flexible
Life happens, and sometimes our plans need to shift—and that’s okay. Some days don’t go as expected, but that doesn’t mean giving up. I remind myself to adapt, stay patient, and keep moving forward. Progress isn’t always linear, but every little step counts.
6. Involve Your Dog’s Unique Personality
Each of my dogs is wonderfully unique, and I love tailoring my goals to their quirks. Lilly’s sweet but struggles with turn-taking; Spudley’s enthusiasm for visitors can be a bit much; and Izzy’s toy obsession is both hilarious and a training opportunity. This year, I’m embracing those quirks with tailored goals—like helping Spudley practise polite greetings and using Izzy’s love of toys for enrichment games.
7. Celebrate the Wins
Celebrating small victories is so important. Did Lilly stay calm when a neighbour’s dog walked by? That’s a win. Did Izzy manage to wait patiently while I trained Spudley? Another win. Acknowledging progress—no matter how small—keeps me motivated and reminds me how far we’ve come.
8. Lean on Trusted Support
Resolutions are easier with the right support. While I don’t involve my family in dog training, I do lean on my network of trainers and friends for advice and encouragement. Having people who understand the journey makes it more rewarding and keeps me on track.
9. Reflect on Your Why
Why do I make these resolutions? Because I want a stronger bond with my dogs, a calmer home, and more joy in our lives. But it’s more than that—I genuinely love the challenge. Constantly improving myself and my dogs keeps me fulfilled and passionate about life. It gives me purpose and keeps our days exciting. Keeping my “why” in mind helps me stay focused, even when things get tough.
For me, the New Year is all about possibility and hope. By setting thoughtful, realistic resolutions, I’m building a better life for myself and my dogs. What about you? What are your goals for 2025? I’d love to hear them—let’s make this a year of progress, joy, and shared adventures with our four-legged friends.
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