• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Make a New Year’s resolution to spend more time with your dog

Posted December 24, 2017

 

By Terry Jester

resolution

This year, make a New Year’s resolution both you and your dog can enjoy. Spend more time together.

I can take my dogs just about anywhere. I’m not embarrassed by their behaviors. I have taken the time and trouble necessary to teach my dogs the three basics – walk on a loose leash, wait at doors, and come when called.

These are three sets of behaviors that all dogs should know. They are the minimum. These behaviors ensure a respectful, attentive, trustworthy, companion and not just a nuisance with a leash attached.

Take your dog with you

Most dogs love going places. They don’t care if they’re going to the store, the post office, or dropping the kids off at school, they want to go.

It’s a break in their otherwise fairly routine, somewhat boring, always predictable day. So, who can blame them? It’s natural for a dog to want to be with their pack, in this case, the family.

It is unnatural for a dog to be alone. Some manage solitude with resignation and dignity. Others make it very plain that isolation is problematic – they bark, they dig, they chew up the house.

New Year’s Resolution: Teach your dog the basics

The solution? Teach your dog the basics. Get the help you need in order to be able to take your dog with you when the opportunity arrives.

I got a phone call from a woman recently who wanted to take her dog to a dog training class but was literally afraid to because she didn’t think she could safely get her huge, ill-mannered Lab mix to the car and then to the class without potentially incurring great bodily harm.

Her dog had a penchant for dragging her everywhere and the lady was afraid she would slip on the ice, lose the dog, cause a wreck, make a fool out of herself, etc. She was embarrassed that the problem had gotten so big and she didn’t know what to do.

Easy, I said. One private lesson and her dog arrived at her dog training class on a loose leash and ready to learn. It really can be that simple.

Don’t let lack of training hold you back

I would love to see more people taking their dogs with them on walks, bike rides, hikes, and jogs. They deserve it.

If a lack of training is keeping you from fully enjoying your dog, and keeping your dog from fully enjoying life, then do something about it.

Join a dog training class. Hire a private trainer if needed for a session or two so you can get your dog going in the right direction.

Make a New Year’s resolution to spend more time with your dog. There are classes starting everywhere in January.  There are no excuses.

Give your dog a happy new year. Take him with you.

Terry Jester is a nationally recognized expert on companion animal behavior. She is regarded by The Humane Society of the United States as being, “Humane and effective in dealing with problem pets and their owners.” Connect with Terry on her website.

Save

 

Related Posts

  • get your dog's attention
    Dog training: Get your dog's attention

    To get your dog's attention, don't yell. Speak in a…

  • dog Christmas danger
    Christmas trees pose dangers for puppies

    Puppy Christmas decorating dangers include trees, poinsettias, wreaths and more.…

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Training, Holidays, Home Page Tagged With: New Year

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

Rescue dogSheddingPoodleWorking dogsValentine's DayOutdoor activitiesSmall dogsPuppy kindergartenPet sitterWaterOld dogsPawYorkshire terrierTwo dogsVacation dog careTicksRottweilerPetfinder.comPandemicVeterinarianService dogsPuppy-proofThanksgivingSocializationtraining tipsSeparation anxietyPomeranianPet parentsPit bullPotty training

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • Balancing cleanliness and canine comfort: The ultimate guide for dog owners
    Balancing cleanliness and canine comfort is crucial for the well-being of your pet. This guide is for you if you want to achieve this balance. […]
  • The importance of a balanced diet for dogs: Why and how you should care
    Feed your dog a balanced diet with the right mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Ensure they get the right amounts to stay healthy. […]
  • Use 5 factors to choose the best veterinarian for your dog
    Research thoroughly and consider location, services, experience, cost, and staff before choosing the right vet for your dog. […]
  • Fight insomnia: 12 tips to help your dog get good sleep
    The most common cause of canine insomnia is pent-up energy. Help your dog sleep all night by ensuring it gets enough exercise. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.