Is there a way our dogs, borrowed or owned, can have an even better year than the last? We’ve found a few small ways to improve your dog's happiness and health.

Go on an adventure

Dogs love to discover new places and particularly the new and exciting smells that come with it. Plan a fun day out with your favourite pooch, whether that be to the seaside, up some hills or a camping trip they’re guaranteed to love it, and you probably will too! For older dogs or those not suited for long trips why not spend some quality time with them and give them all the cuddles they deserve.

A healthier diet

It’s not just us humans that often need to think about being healthier. Take some time to think about your dog’s diet. Do you know how many treats they SHOULD get in a day? Are you feeding them too many treats? Do they get table scraps? Could you try another healthier type of dog food? Why not speak to your local vet or take advantage of our 24/7 Vetline? A healthy dog is a happy dog!

Brush their teeth

Now, some dogs may not enjoy this one, but they’ll thank you in the long run for cleaner and healthier teeth. If tooth brushing is completely out of the question, perhaps try dental dog treats.

Treat them to a new accessory

A collar, a lead, a harness - our dogs will use at least one of these (if not more!) everyday. So why not treat them to a new one. The higher the quality the longer they tend to last, so if you’re feeling generous, do some research into the best product for them and splash a bit of cash!

Tell them you love them

All dogs love praise, so spend more time telling them how much of a good doggy they really are. Pawsitive tones and praise will make them feel happy, comfortable and loved.

Teach them a new trick

Training doesn’t have to stop after they’ve learnt sit, stay and lay down. Spend some quality time with them and teach them a fun new trick like touching something with their paw or holding an object in their mouth. Take a look at a few of our dog trick tutorials here.

New treats

If you decide to teach your dog a new trick you’re going to need some new extra tasty treats. Head to your closest pet shop and treat them to something tasty! Alternatively, try your hand at making easy, healthy, homemade dog treats.

Keep on top of their health

Like us, dogs can feel poorly. Make sure you keep an eye on their health and take them for their regular vet check ups, they’re important to help keep your favourite pal as healthy as they can be.

Go swimming!

Lots of doggies love to go swimming, and this is a great way to keep them active and healthy. They love it even more when you go with them, so if this is possible then why don’t you and your pooch go and have a paddle :). Just make sure where you go is clean and safe for you both!

They love to play

Dogs love to run around and play, it is just the way they are. A good way to keep your dog nice and active is to take some time out of your day to play with them. Find out what games are your doggy’s favourite, from tug-of-war to chasing them around the garden, these will be sure to keep any doggy amused for hours at a time.

Keep them stimulated

All dogs have to be left alone from time to time, so when you do have to go out then try to keep them busy, and stimulated. Toys that dispense treats slowly are great for times like this.

Make a fuss of them

Everyone knows that dogs love attention. Patting your dog, chin rubs, scratching their tummy and rubbing their ears are just some of the affection that dogs love the most.

Dogs are part of the family

Dogs are pack animals, so they love being part of a group. Treating your doggy as part of the family, with lots of love and care, will be sure to make your loveable pooch happier than anything.

From socialisation to playing, there’s something for everyone. And what’s more, the dogs in the video are all Dogs Trust rescue dogs who are now BorrowMyDoggy members - high paws!

You don’t always have to spend a lot or even anything at all to make your dog happier, spending more time with them or giving them an extra walk can really make a difference. Need someone to help with trusted dog care support? Look at the borrowers in your area today.

This article is for information only, and should never replace any advice, diagnosis or treatment from your veterinary surgeon. Always contact your local vet or out of hours vet without delay if you have any concerns about your dog.