New Year’s Resolution: Better Obedience Training for Your Cat or Dog
As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to set goals—not just for ourselves but also for our furry friends. Better obedience training can strengthen the bond with your pet, create a more harmonious home, and even improve their overall well-being.
At I Was Today Years Old, we believe in positivity, growth, and helping you and your pets thrive together. Let’s explore how to make 2025 the year of better obedience training for your cat or dog with simple strategies and must-have products.
1. Set Realistic Training Goals
For Dogs
Teach foundational commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “heel.”
Gradually add advanced skills, such as off-leash recall or tricks like “roll over.”
For Cats
Focus on positive behaviors like coming when called or staying off furniture.
Use clicker training to teach fun tricks like high-fives or jumping through hoops.
2. Invest in the Right Training Tools
Top Products for Dogs
PetSafe Treat & Train Remote Reward Trainer: Reinforce good behavior from a distance.
PetSafe Easy Walk Harness: Help your dog master leash manners.
Top Products for Cats
HoAoOo Cat Training Clicker: Perfect for marking positive behaviors.
Feliway Classic Calming Diffuser: Reduce stress to create a positive training environment.
3. Incorporate Positive Reinforcement
Reward your pet for every success, big or small. Use their favorite treats, toys, or praise to keep them motivated.
Recommended Product: Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Treats
4. Make Training Fun and Regular
Short, engaging sessions are better than long, tedious ones. Aim for 5-10 minutes daily.
Tip: Use interactive toys like the KONG Classic Dog Toy or SmartyKat Catnip Toys to incorporate play into training.
5. Address Specific Behavioral Challenges
For Dogs
If leash pulling is a problem, try a no-pull harness like the Ruffwear Front Range Harness.
For excessive barking, consider an ultrasonic deterrent.
For Cats
Redirect scratching to appropriate surfaces with SmartyKat Scratch Posts.
Use pheromone sprays to ease anxiety in multi-cat households.
6. Recommended Books for Pet Parents
The Art of Raising a Puppy by The Monks of New Skete: Comprehensive guidance for training and bonding with your dog.
Catification: Expert advice for training and understanding feline behavior.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
Progress takes time, but every little improvement deserves recognition. Stay patient and consistent, and you’ll see results in no time.
Final Thoughts
Making obedience training your New Year’s resolution is a step toward a happier, more fulfilling relationship with your pet. With the right tools, techniques, and mindset, 2025 can be the year you and your furry friend achieve amazing growth together.
At I Was Today Years Old, we’re here to support you with expert tips and product recommendations to make pet parenting a joy.
What’s your top training goal for the new year? Share it in the comments below! 🐾