Spring Clean Your Routine: 5 Healthy Habits for You and Your Dog
1. Swap to Healthier Snacks
Take a look at what’s in your cupboards and treat jars. Try swapping ultra-processed snacks for natural, whole-food options. For dogs, this could mean rabbit ears, fish skins, or dried veggies. For you, maybe it’s trail mix, fresh fruit, or smoothies! Shared snacking habits = shared wins. Single ingredient options do not always mean healthier, but certainly offer more transparency in choosing the better options. But remember to take any treats you're giving yourself or your dog into consideration at meal times.
2. Move More Together
Now that the evenings are brighter, it’s a great time to commit to daily walks, runs, or outdoor play. Even a 20-minute stroll boosts mental health, reduces stress, and strengthens your bond. Bonus points if you find a new trail or beach to explore! Though you might not necessarily enjoy sniffing every grain of grass, 20 minutes of sniffing time fro your pup can equate to an hour of walking. And the endorphin boost you get from spending time together can only be good for you!
3. Reset Your Routine
Setting regular mealtimes, walk times, and wind-down moments benefits both you and your dog. Dogs thrive on routine—it helps reduce anxiety and supports their natural circadian rhythm, improving digestion and behaviour. For humans, a consistent schedule can improve sleep, regulate stress hormones, and boost overall wellbeing. Sharing a routine helps you both feel more balanced, connected, and calm day to day.
4. Mental Enrichment Matters
Try new activities that keep your minds sharp: for your dog, this could be a snuffle mat or puzzle toy. Or, for a more cost effective way, try scatter feeding your dog, weather that be on the ground, or for added difficulty, in the grass. For you, maybe a book, podcast, or a hobby you’ve been meaning to pick up. Keep those brains engaged and active!
5. Clean Out the Clutter
Spring clean your spaces, wash dog beds, leashes, bowls, and maybe declutter your own home and space a little too. A clean, organised space can reduce stress and help you both relax and reset for the season ahead.