9 New Year’s Resolutions For You—and Your Pet

This past year was full of ups and downs, and for a lot of us, a clean slate is welcome. The New Year is a time for fresh starts — for both you and your pet. Everything’s better with our cats and dogs by our side, and they deserve to level up this year, too.

If you’re reviewing your list of resolutions and wondering how you can incorporate our pet into your plan to make 2026 the best year yet, we have some ideas. Below are some of the most common New Year’s resolutions and how you can bring your pet along on the ride.

1. Exercise more 

Want to be more active this year? You don’t have to do it alone. Your dog will benefit from your newfound passion for long walks and maybe-not-so-long (yet!) runs. It’s easy to hike with your dog — as long as they’re trained, well-equipped, and you’re on the watch for ticks. And believe it or not, your cat can get involved, too: You can teach a cat to use a leash and take a walk. Check out our favorite cat leashes and harnesses here. 

2. Get organized 

If you told yourself you’d be tidier this year, start by organizing your pet papers. Then check out our advice from certified KonMari consultants on how to find the joy — and toss out the rest — in your pet’s toy collection.

3. Learn a new skill 

It’s always fun to try a hobby, whether you’re signing up for a dance class or downloading Duolingo — and you’re not the only one who’s craving some stimulation and horizon-broadening. Try teaching your pet some new tricks or buying them a puzzle to keep them active.  

4. Save money 

Life is expensive, and your pet’s definitely not pulling their weight when it comes to chipping in for all those treats and toys. Cut some spending by saving money on your vet bills and investing in pet insurance.

5. Travel more 

Your pet wants to see the sights, too. Find everything you need to travel with a cat, everything you need to fly with a dog, and read our advice on planning a dog-friendly roadtrip. Undecided on a destination? Check out our dog-friendly city guides.

6. Practice self care

We could all stand to up our wellness game — our pets included. To help your pet unwind, try a dog or cat massage, check out alternative wellness therapi es, such as Reiki, and maybe provide a little CBD for anxiety. Together, the two (or more) of you can practice mindfulness and try dog yoga. Check out the Calm app for meditations, stories, and soundscapes specifically designed with your pet in mind.

7. Spend more time with family and friends 

You aren’t the only one craving connection; your pet needs to socialize, too. Learn how to get a shy dog to socialize and why socialization, believe it or not, is equally important for cats. 

8. Practice better sleep habits

If you aren’t getting your CDC-recommended seven (or more) hours a night, you aren’t alone — though your dog or cat is probably blowing your numbers out of the water. Luckily for both of you, there are health benefits to sleeping with your dog and a few good reasons why your cat might want to join you in your sleep sesh, too.

9. Eat healthier

Your pet might not seem to have the most discerning taste, but trust us: They want in on 2026’s healthy-food agenda. Start by reading up on the qualities of healthy dog and cat food; then look into options for food toppers and dog and cat supplements. You and your pet can even share superfoods and some dog-and cat-safe fruits and vegetables.