The start of a new year is all about fresh beginnings, new goals, and the hope that this is the year everything clicks. While people are setting New Year’s resolutions to move more and stress less, dogs benefit from a reset too, especially after the busy holiday season. 

January is the perfect time to establish routines that support your dog’s mental stimulation, physical activity, and healthy chewing habits. With the right enrichment, you can help your dog feel calmer, more confident, and ready to tackle the year ahead—one toy at a time. 

Dog New Year’s Resolution #1: Improve Mental Stimulation 

Mental enrichment is a top dog-training focus in January, especially as cold weather limits outdoor activity. Giving dogs a productive way to think and problem-solve helps reduce boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors. 

The KONG® Donut provides long-lasting engagement that encourages focus and problem-solving, making it an ideal indoor enrichment option during winter months. 

January tip:

Use enrichment toys during downtime or after walks to help your dog decompress and settle indoors. 

Dog New Year’s Resolution #2: Stay Active During Winter 

Physical activity is one of the most common New Year goals, for humans and dogs alike. Even when outdoor play is limited, interactive toys can keep dogs moving and motivated. 

The KONG® Flexball adds unpredictability to fetch and independent play, encouraging movement, chasing, and healthy exercise without feeling structured training. 

Why it works: 

Play-based exercise supports joint health, weight management, and energy balance—key goals for dogs in January. 

Dog New Year’s Resolution #3: Support Dental Health with Chewing 

January is also a popular time to focus on wellness, and dental health plays a big role in a dog’s overall well-being. 

KONG® Corkz is a mess-free KONG Topper designed to fit small, medium, and large KONG rubber toys. When chewed, Corkz helps clean teeth and freshens breath, turning everyday chewing into an easy dental-care habit. 

Corkz offers a clean, convenient way to support your dog’s oral health while satisfying their natural urge to chew. 

Why it works: 

Healthy chewing helps reduce plaque buildup, supports fresh breath, and provides stress relief- —without extra cleanup. 

Dog New Year’s Resolution #4: Reduce Stress and Build Better Routines 

January transitions can be tough for dogs. New schedules, colder weather, and less stimulation can increase restlessness. Enrichment routines help dogs adjust by providing structure and predictability. 

Rotating toys like the KONG Donut, KONG Flexball, and KONG Classic stuffed with a Corkz keeps playing fresh while reinforcing positive habits. 

January routine idea: 

Create a daily rotation of enrichment, movement, and chew time to help your dog feel secure and successful. 

A New Year’s Resolution Your Dog Will Love 

Helping your dog start the year strong doesn’t require drastic changes; just smart enrichment and consistent routines. By supporting mental stimulation, physical movement, dental health, and stress relief, you set your dog up for a healthier, happier year. 

This January, give your dog resolutions they’ll keep- and enjoy every playful moment along the way.