A brunette woman is hugging/holding a pug in her arms. They are both wearing headbands with antlers on them. There is a pink background with metallic streamers and gold

New Year, New You, New Pup

Written by: Faith McCloy

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Published on

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Time to read 6 min

New Year's Resolutions

How long did your New Year’s Resolution last in 2024? You might’ve made it to the end of January, March, or you are one of the lucky few who worked towards their goals all year long. Well, 2025 is here, and let’s be clear: it’s time to make those New Year’s Resolutions stick. And this time we’ll include the pups. 

A Step Toward Better

For my first New Year’s resolution, I will make movement a priority, finding strength and confidence in every step.

For You

So much of our lives are lived sitting down. You might have a long commute or sit at your desk throughout the day. Humans, much like dogs, were meant to move–and movement is integral to a body that functions well! You can prioritize your mobility by:


  1. Dedicating a portion of your day to walking, jogging, biking, or other forms of exercise.
  2. Joining a fitness class or set a weekly workout schedule.
  3. Setting a daily step goal (e.g., 10,000 steps) and track it with an app or smartwatch.

For Your Dog


Dogs will be dogs, and that means they need to be active. When your dog lacks proper exercise, it can lead to bad behavior. Curb an anxious Nellie by:


  1. Going on longer or more frequent walks around the neighborhood or a nearby park.
  2. Play active games like fetch, tug-of war, or hide-and-seek with your dog’s favorite toy.
  3. Trying a new physical activity, like agility training, hiking trails, or swimming.

Eating With Intention

For my second New Year’s resolution, I will nourish my body and mind with wholesome foods, embracing balance and making choices that fuel my best self. 

For You


Don’t worry, you can still eat what you want. Eating healthy doesn’t equate cutting out your favorite Little Debbie snack. It does mean intuitive eating and doing so with intention.


  1. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, focusing on savoring each bite and how it makes you feel.
  2. Choose foods that equally nourish your body and bring you joy without guilt or restriction.
  3. Build a positive relationship with food by connecting with each ingredient that goes into your meals.

For Your Dog

We get it, dog nutrition can be difficult and expensive. But we’re here to tell you it doesn’t have to be. Proper food can mean all the difference to your dog’s health. Try the following tips to practice healthy eating:


  1. Add nutrient rich toppers like Ahiflower Omega Oil, fruits and vegetables, or probiotics for an extra boost
  2. Swap calorie-heavy treats (e.g., biscuits) for healthier options like freeze-dried treats.
  3. Feed meals on a schedule to avoid overeating and to encourage routine.

Check-In With Check-Ups

For my third New Year’s resolution, I will stay proactive about my health by scheduling regular check-ups and addressing any concerns early. 

For You


With all these other improvements to our lives, regular checks at the doctor are a necessity. Staying on top of your health has never been more important as we face the future. Being proactive can make or break your future.


  1. Schedule annual physical exams, dental cleanings, and vision check-ups.
  2. Stay on top of age-appropriate screenings like blood work, various screenings, and health tests.
  3. Track and record health changes in a journal or health app.

For Your Dog

Do you ever get a feeling that your dog is copying you? Well, for this resolution, they are! Your dog needs regular health check-ups as much as you do, yet it can be 10x easier.


  1. Visit the vet for yearly check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. (Luckily, they have it all in one appointment!)
  2. Monitor weight, behavior, and mobility for signs of illness or discomfort.
  3. Keep flea, tick, and heartworm medications up to date.

Mind In Motion

For my fourth New Year’s resolution, I will keep my mind sharp and engaged by exploring new puzzles, challenges, and ideas. 

For You


Sick of the mind-numbing scroll? When you’re stuck in your daily routine, our brains get used to the monotony. It’s time to spice things up so we can get creative this year!


  1. Read a new book, start a puzzle, or learn a new language.
  2. Try brain-boosting games like trivia, Sudoku, or strategy games. Word games can help stimulate your vocabulary.
  3. Dedicate time to mindfulness activities like meditation or journaling.

For Your Dog

We don’t always have the time or energy for long walks and intense play sessions. Mental enrichment can foot the bill during those days. Working your dog’s mind reduces energy just as well as a walk.


  1. Introduce puzzle feeders or interactive toys during mealtime.
  2. Teach new tricks or commands to challenge their mind and strengthen your bond.
  3. Explore new walking routes to experience new sights, smells, and sounds.

Expand Your Horizons

For my fifth New Year’s resolution, I’ll embrace curiosity and growth by picking up a new skill or hobby that fulfills me. 

For You


It’s easy to get stuck in a routine, but life feels richer when we challenge ourselves to learn and create. Whether it’s picking up a new skill or diving into a creative hobby, there’s always room for growth!


  1. Take up a new hobby that excites you.
  2. Enroll in a class or workshop for a skill you’ve always wanted to learn.
  3. Dedicate time weekly to practice and grow your new passion.

For Your Dog

Your dog loves to learn, and teaching them new tricks or engaging in fun activities can deepen your bond and keep them sharp. A little mental challenge goes a long way in keeping tails wagging.


  1. Learn new tricks to show off all year long.
  2. Start a canine hobby like scent work, agility training, or dock diving.
  3. Get used to new environments like car rides, camping, or dog-friendly events.

Spark New Connections

For my sixth New Year’s resolution, I will step out of my comfort zone to create new, meaningful connections with my community. 

For You


Building connections doesn’t just boost your mood–it can lead to lifelong friendships and shared experiences. Putting yourself out there can make your year more vibrant and fulfilling.


  1. Attend events, join a club, or try group activities to meet new people.
  2. Schedule more social outings with friends or co-workers.
  3. Volunteer in the community to expand your circle.

For Your Dog

Every wagging tail is a potential friend (but always ask other owners if their dog is safe to approach) for your pup! Socializing with other dogs helps build their confidence and keeps their social skills sharp.


  1. Visit a dog park or attend a dog-friendly event to meet other furry friends.
  2. Go on playdates with another friendly dog.
  3. Join a training class/group to socialize while learning.

Explore The Unknown

For my seventh New Year’s resolution, I will seek new experiences, places, and adventures that enrich my life. 

For You


Breaking free from routine and seeking out new experiences can refresh your perspective and invigorate your spirit. Adventure challenges your comfort zone, inspires personal growth, and creates memories that leave a lasting impression.


  1. Explore a new hiking trail, beach, or nearby city on the weekends.
  2. Limit repeat visits in favor of exploring local restaurants, stores, and more.
  3. Say “yes” to spontaneous plans for unique experiences.

For Your Dog

Your dog’s world revolves around the sights, smells, and sounds of their surroundings. Exploring new places is not just exciting for them–it’s an adventure that strengthens your bond.


  1. Explore unfamiliar dog parks, trails, and neighborhoods for scent walks.
  2. Try new sensory experiences like sand, snow, or water adventures.
  3. Take a road trip or vacation around your dog.

Small Choices, Big Impact

For my eighth and final New Year’s resolution, I will make thoughtful choices that contribute to a more sustainable way of living. 

For You


Every small step towards sustainability can make a big difference. From reducing overconsumption to choosing eco-friendly products, your daily actions can contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.


  1. Opt for products with eco-conscious packaging and support brands prioritizing sustainable practices.
  2. Embrace “minimalism” by focusing on quality over quantity, purchasing only what you truly need and value.
  3. Participate in community initiatives like tree-planting programs, clean-up events, or starting a home garden.

For Your Dog

Sustainability doesn’t stop with humans! Your dog has a part to play too. Making mindful decisions for your pet not only benefits their health, but also supports a greener planet.


  1. Incorporate sustainable supplements like Ahiflower Omega Oil, a plant-based alternative that supports your pet’s health and the environment.
  2. Choose eco-friendly toys and accessories made from recycled or natural materials.
  3. Make your daily walks impactful

Consistency Is Key, Not King

This is a year for stepping outside our comfort zone and embracing the awkward. Growth happens when we allow ourselves to explore, try new things, and challenge routines that no longer serve us. While consistency creates stability, it should never come at the cost of our joy or our well-being. Balance is key! Let this year be about saying “yes” to the experiences that inspire us, energize us, and remind us of all the possibilities life has to offer.