10 Dog-Centered Goals for a More Meaningful 2026

The holidays can be a time of chaos, stress, and constant busyness. Once Christmas is over and the presents are unwrapped, this becomes one of my favorite times of the year. I love sitting down to reflect on the past year and plan the one ahead. Resolutions aren’t my thing, but I do like setting goals.

This year, I wanted to include my dogs in that process. They are a huge part of my life, and since I don’t have kids, they truly are my family.

Here are my 10 dog-centric goals for 2026, with my girls, Kita and Zoey.

1. Go on More Adventures Together

We already walk daily, but I want to explore more - new parks, trails, and locations. This is especially important for Zoey, who, as a rescued Golden Retriever, still finds new environments scary. When I was getting her out more consistently, I saw real progress. My goal is to get back to that and plan at least one adventure a month.

2. Make Time for More Playdates

Zoey does better exploring new places when she’s with her dog friends. And honestly, the social interaction is good for both of us. We do schedule playdates, but not often enough. In 2026, I want to make them a regular part of our lives.

3. Continue Training and Learning New Tricks

Of all my dogs, Zoey is my smartest girl. She picks up on new words quickly, and I’ve been having fun teaching her new tricks. This year, I want to build on that - reinforcing basic training and adding “heel” to her list of commands.

4. Be More Intentional About Focused Playtime

My girls wait all day for me to get home, and it’s one of the highlights of their day. Too often, I rush past them and jump straight into my evening routine. This year, I want to slow down and create intentional playtime when I walk in the door - for them and for me.

5. Add More Mental Enrichment

A tired dog really is a happy dog. I do some mental enrichment now, but not consistently. In 2026, I want to add more enrichment toys and activities to keep their minds engaged.

6. Improve Their Diet

I’ve been reading more about raw diets for dogs. While I’m not ready to make a full switch, adding raw food - even occasionally - is better than nothing. This year, my goal is simple: be more consistent.

7. Photograph My Own Dogs More

As a pet photographer, this one feels especially important. Zoey is harder to photograph than my last Golden, Izzy, who could go anywhere with me. Because of that, I have fewer photos of her. As I start noticing the early gray around her mouth, I’m reminded how important it is to document the everyday moments. Maybe 2026 is finally the year I do a full session with her.

8. Slow Down and Meditate Together

This one seems odd, but hear me out. Every year, I set a goal to meditate daily - and every year, it slips to the bottom of my list and doesn’t happen. My dogs are great at sitting still and doing nothing. Maybe if I follow their lead and do it with them, this habit will finally stick.

9. Commit to Weekly Teeth Brushing

Dental care is easy to overlook. While I already brush their teeth, I don’t do it often enough. In 2026, I’m committing to making it a weekly habit.

10. More Cuddles

And last but not least, more cuddles. Zoey loves curling up next to me while I read, and those quiet moments matter more than we realize. Slowing down like that is good for both of us.

Setting goals with my dogs feels like a meaningful way to strengthen our bond and make 2026 a great year.

What goals are you setting for your dogs this year?