5 New Year’s Goals for You and Your Pet

1. Learn Something New Together

Learning a new skill or hobby is a great way to refresh your routine—and your pet can join in, too! Dogs thrive on mental stimulation and love having a job to do. This year, commit to teaching your dog a new trick or command. It doesn’t have to be fancy—try “touch,” “spin,” or “leave it.” It builds confidence and strengthens your bond.

Training can also help with behavior issues. If you're housebreaking a new puppy or setting boundaries in the home, pair training with a Carlson pet gate to manage access to areas while you both learn.

Have a cat? Believe it or not, cats can learn tricks too! Try “high-five” or using a clicker to reinforce fun behaviors.

Pro Tip: Keep sessions short, use high-value treats, and set up a distraction-free training zone with a pressure-mounted gate.

2. Travel More—Near or Far

Want to explore more in 2025? Your pet can come along! From weekend trips to day adventures, there are more pet-friendly destinations than ever before. Look for dog-friendly restaurants, hiking trails, or even pet-welcoming hotels.

Don’t forget to bring the essentials: travel bowls, favorite toys, and a portable crate or car barrier to keep your pet safe on the go. With the right gear, even a simple road trip becomes a bonding experience.

Carlson’s foldable crates and compact gates make it easy to bring your setup anywhere—perfect for pet parents on the move.

3. Get Active—Together

Working out is easier (and more fun) with a buddy—especially one with four legs and boundless energy. Whether it’s daily walks, backyard agility, or a new hiking trail, set a fitness goal that gets both of you moving.

Looking for something new? Try canine sports like agility or scent work, or just commit to 20 minutes of active play each day.

Keep your home fitness-friendly by creating a safe zone for zoomies or stretching out with your dog. A freestanding gate helps separate workout space from play space

4. Mix Up Mealtime

Resolutions around food are common—why not include your pet? Instead of a restrictive diet, try introducing new healthy foods or making homemade pet treats.

For dogs, frozen treats made with peanut butter and bananas are a hit. For cats, try baked tuna crisps or dehydrated salmon bites. Adding puzzle feeders or slow feeders can also make mealtime more engaging and mentally stimulating.

Cooking something special for your pet? Use a gate or pen to keep eager noses out of the kitchen while you prep.

5. Be Present—Savor the Little Moments

If there's one thing pets are great at, it’s reminding us to be present. Whether your dog is sunbathing by the window or your cat curls up beside you after a long day, these small moments are what life is really about.

Set a goal to unplug and spend more intentional time with your pet each day. Even five minutes of focused play or a quiet walk together can reduce stress—for both of you.

Use a pet gate to create a calm, cozy corner in your home where you can relax and reconnect without distractions.

This year, ditch the resolutions that feel like a chore. Instead, build habits that strengthen your bond with your pet—and bring joy into your everyday life. Whether it’s training with a new pet gate or heading out on your next big adventure, Carlson Pet Products is here to support every step.

Share your 2025 pet goals with us on Instagram @carlsonpetproducts—we can’t wait to see where this year takes you and your furry co-pilot!