DIY Dog New Year’s Resolutions: Fun Goals for Your Pup in 2025
New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for humans! This year, why not add your furry best friend to the fun? Setting light-hearted and achievable goals for your dog is a great way to strengthen your bond, keep them physically and mentally active, and bring more joy into both of your lives.
We’ve rounded up some fun and creative “resolutions” for your pup in 2025, along with tips (and must-have products) to help you make them happen. Grab a treat, scratch your pup’s ears, and start planning a paw-sitive year together!
Spend More Time Outdoors 🐾
We could all use more fresh air—and so could our dogs. Whether it’s hiking new trails, frequent visits to the dog park, or simply exploring the neighborhood on longer walks, spending more time outdoors has countless benefits for your pup, like improved physical fitness and mental stimulation.
How to Get Started
Make it fun with new gear! A brightly colored Nermington's bandana or bow can make every outing feel special.
Create a “bucket list” of local parks and new spots to explore together.
Use a pedometer or fitness tracker for dogs (yes, they exist!) to measure how much ground your pup covers.
💡 Nermington’s Pick: Try our Spring/Summer Collection to add to your stylish adventures.
Learn a New Trick 🎓
Learning a new trick isn’t just cute—it’s great mental exercise for your dog and can improve your communication skills as a team. Start with something simple like “spin” or “shake,” or try advanced tricks like fetching specific items or putting away their toys.
How to Get Started
Use positive reinforcement with plenty of treats and praise.
Keep training sessions short—about 5 to 10 minutes long—to hold your pup’s attention.
Break the trick into small, manageable steps to make learning easier.
💡 Nermington’s Pick: Our friends at Dog Training Elite - Upstate has all the tips to achieve your goals!
Try a New Fashion Look 🐶
Who says New Year’s resolutions can’t include a style upgrade? Spruce up your pup’s wardrobe with a fresh bandana or bow that compliments their winter sweaters—and why not match them too?
How to Get Started
Find a look that matches your pup’s personality—are they sporty, preppy, or chic?
Start small to get them used to wearing new items, especially if they’re not used to clothing.
Snap plenty of photos because, really, who can resist a well-dressed dog?
💡 Nermington’s Pick: Check out our bandana and bow collections for your pup, and don’t forget to grab a matching pocket tee for yourself! Twinning has never been more adorable.
Meet New Doggie Friends 🐕🦺
Socialization is an important part of keeping your dog happy and well-adjusted. Make 2025 the year your pup expands their social circle with regular playdates or meet-ups at dog-friendly events.
How to Get Started
Join local dog groups or attend “yappy hours” to connect with other pet owners.
Train your dog on polite greetings and play behaviors before introducing them to new friends.
Keep an eye on your pup’s body language to make sure they’re comfortable and having fun.
💡 Nermington’s Pick: Start small and have a lot of patience. Bring along your pup's favorite treats to keep your pup relaxed during playdate introductions.
Prioritize Regular Grooming 🛁
Healthy fur, happy dog! Regular grooming keeps your dog looking great and feeling even better in 2025. From brushing and baths to nail trimming and dental care, a grooming routine is a must-have resolution.
How to Get Started
Schedule grooming sessions and stick to them! Make it part of your dog’s routine.
Use high-quality grooming products that suit your dog’s coat type.
Reward your pup with treats to make grooming a positive experience.
💡 Nermington’s Pick: We love our friends: Woofgang Bakery & Grooming - Downtown GVL, Woofies Mobile Pet Spa, and for those at-home baths we can't get enough of Swamp Rabbit Suds.
Explore New Tastes 🍉
Why stick to the same tastes when your dog can enjoy a culinary adventure? Treat your pup to a variety of new, healthy flavors this year.
How to Get Started
Introduce one new food at a time to watch for any allergies or sensitivities.
Try simple healthy treats to add some excitement between meals.
Always consult your vet before adding new foods to your dog’s diet.
💡 Nermington’s Pick: We love treats from Sweet PawCakes and Sweet Treats For Wet Noses.
Be Part of a Community 🐕
One of the best parts of being a dog owner is the community of fellow dog lovers you’re part of. Make 2025 the year you connect with others, whether it’s through social media, events, or swapping tips in your local dog park.
How to Get Started
Join online forums or follow Instagram accounts that celebrate dogs as much as you do!
Attend dog-friendly festivals, fundraisers, or training workshops.
Share photos and stories about your pup—you might inspire someone else’s year!
💡 Nermington’s Pick: Check out our Events page to connect with other dog lovers. Also, be sure to check out Good Dogs of Greenville for tips on dog-friendly restaurants, events, and more!
Make 2025 the Best Year Yet for You and Your Dog!
Your dog is more than a pet—they’re family. Setting New Year’s resolutions is all about creating more happy moments together, from long walks in the park to fashion-forward photo ops.
At Nermingtons, we’re here to make it easier (and even more fun). With products that fit every goal, blogs to keep you updated, and creating a welcoming community, we’ve got all the essentials to keep tails wagging in 2025.
