Dog Supplies Reset for 2026: What to Throw Away, Clean, or Donate

Another year has passed... and what a year it has been.

While there were definitely goals I didn’t fully achieve for myself and Marlee, one thing I did gain was something far more important: a deeper bond. I’ve spent this past year learning not only what Marlee needs to thrive, but also educating myself more on dog training, reactivity, and bully breeds as a whole.

As we head into 2026, I feel more motivated than ever. I have new goals, new plans, and so much excitement for what’s ahead. I can’t wait to continue documenting our journey — the growth, the challenges, and all the adventures in between.

One tradition I love starting each new year with is a full dog supplies reset. Tidy up, deep clean, donate what no longer serves us, and create a clean slate so we feel prepared and grounded heading into the year.

Below is exactly how I approach our reset, broken down into what to throw away, what to deep clean, and what to donate.

Get Rid of Completely

(If it’s unsafe, unsanitary, or expired... it goes.)

Toys

• Frayed rope toys (they harbor bacteria)

• Hard chews that pose a tooth-damage risk

• Toys showing signs of mold

• Anything cracked, broken, or sharp

  
  

Medication

• Expired medications

• Prescriptions no longer being used

• Supplements past their recommended shelf life

  
  

Always dispose of medications properly and never donate opened or expired meds.

Leashes & Collars

• Gear damaged enough to risk breaking during walks

• Rusted clips or metal rings

• Items that no longer fit properly or cause irritation

  
  

Safe, secure gear is essential, especially for reactive dogs.

Treats

• Expired treats

• Treats with signs of bugs or contamination

• Opened items past their freshness window

  
  

Bedding

• Beds with strings that pose a choking hazard

• Bedding with mold inside

• Beds repeatedly soiled where odors remain after deep cleaning

• Foam beds that are breaking down or crumbling

  
  

Grooming & Care Products

• Expired shampoos or sprays

• Products with strong fragrances or dyes

• Old paw balms or ointments

• Brushes with broken or damaged bristles

  
  

Deep Clean It

(If it’s still useful but hiding bacteria, allergens, or odor.)

Bowls & Feeding Tools

• Food and water bowls

• Raised feeders

• Slow feeders with grooves

Most items can go in the dishwasher, but hot water and dish soap work just as well if needed.

Bedding & Fabric Items

• Dog beds

• Crate pads

• Couch covers or throws your dog uses

• Car seat covers

Use pet-safe detergent and white vinegar to deodorize. For an extra deep clean, check out my post on laundry stripping.

Toys & Enrichment Items

• Lick mats (dishwasher or sanitize)

• Snuffle mats

• Puzzle toys (wash with warm water and dish soap)

• Rubber toys (sanitize weekly using a vinegar solution)

  
  

Wash stuffed toys in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle with cool water and pet-safe detergent. Add white vinegar for extra deodorizing.

Grooming Tools

• Brushes and combs

• Nail clippers

• Paw cleaners

• Bath towels

Especially important if your dog deals with skin conditions, clean tools prevent flare-ups.

Donate

(If it’s clean, safe, and your dog just doesn’t use it.)

Toys

• Lightly used rubber toys

• Gently used plush toys (no damage)

• Puzzle toys your dog didn’t engage with

  
  

Gear & Accessories

• Extra leashes

• Coats or rain jackets

• Collars or harnesses in good condition that don’t fit or go unused

• Boots that didn’t fit properly

  
  

Beds & Supplies

• Beds in good condition

• Stainless steel bowls

• Unopened food or treats (check with shelters first)

  
  

Starting the year with a clean slate puts both you and your dog in a better headspace. When we feel organized and prepared, we’re able to show up as the best version of ourselves, and that directly impacts our dogs.

Turn this reset into something fun. Let your dog “rediscover” toys you’ve rotated back in, or free up space to invest in higher-quality, high-value supplies that truly support their wellbeing.

And remember, this reset doesn’t have to be limited to January. You can revisit this process monthly or quarterly. Especially when living with a reactive dog, these small resets can act as your own form of stress relief and mental detox.

I also want to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who has followed along with this blog. We’ve gained so many new readers this year, and I’m incredibly grateful for every comment, share, and message. Advocating for reactive dogs and bully breeds is one of my biggest passions, and this blog is just the beginning.

Here’s to a new year filled with growth, learning, and intention — from Marlee and me

What are you focusing on resetting this year? Let me know in the comments below!