New Year Dog Wellness Reset

January is the perfect time for a fresh start — not just for us, but for our dogs too. After the busy holiday season, colder weather, and changes in routine, many pups benefit from a little wellness reset. The good news: a few simple habits can make a huge difference in their health and happiness throughout the year.

Check Their Weight After the Holidays

Holiday leftovers, treats from visitors, and fewer outdoor walks often mean winter weight gain for dogs. Use January to reassess your dog’s body condition.

A healthy dog should have:

• A visible waist from above
• Ribs you can feel but not see
• No thick fat layer over the spine or hips

If your dog gained a bit, don’t worry — reduce treat calories, add indoor activities, and keep walks steady even in cool temperatures.

Refresh Their Diet

Winter dryness and lower activity can affect digestion, coat health, and energy levels.

Small resets you can try:

• Switch to a higher-quality protein if needed
• Add omega-3s for skin and joint support
• Try a probiotic for gut health
• Replace some treats with fruits/veggies (carrots, blueberries, cucumbers)

Always transition slowly to avoid stomach upset.

Rebuild a Consistent Routine

Dogs thrive on predictability. The holidays often disrupt that rhythm.

Try re-establishing:

• A consistent feeding schedule
• Regular walk times
• Daily enrichment (snuffle mats, puzzle toys, lick mats)
• Quiet time or crate naps

This instantly reduces stress, boredom, and unwanted behaviors.

Improve Their Dental Care

More than 80% of adult dogs show dental issues. January is the perfect month to strengthen your routine.

Options:

• Daily brushing
• Dental chews approved by vets
• Water additives
• Scheduling a winter dental cleaning

Give Their Joints Extra Support

Cold weather is hard on senior dogs and large breeds. Add comfort with:

• A supportive orthopedic bed
• A warm jacket for outdoor walks
• Joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin
• Shorter, more frequent walks instead of long outings

Mental Health Reset

Winter means more time indoors — and many dogs get bored quickly.

Try:

• Training 5 minutes a day
• New commands
• Scent games around the house
• Indoor obstacle courses

These stimulate the mind as much as a long walk.

A New Year reset doesn’t have to be complicated — small changes create big results. Start January with healthy habits, and you’ll set your dog up for their best year yet.