Setting 2026 Goals With a Reactive Senior Dog

2026 has officially begun and if that means anything, it means new goals.

I did a post like this last year, and truthfully, I wasn’t giving it my all. I got comfortable. I got a little lazy with Marlee’s training because… I could. If you know anything about Marlee, you know that inside the house she is the most perfect dog anyone could ask for. As long as I was meeting her exercise and enrichment needs, I convinced myself that ongoing training wasn’t necessary.

But this year, I want more for us.

Marlee turned 7 in 2025, and I can definitely see her age starting to show. Maybe it’s because I’m with her every single day, but I notice her struggle with things she used to do effortlessly. And while that breaks my heart a little, it’s also pushed me to reflect. I want her to experience more, not in a forced or overwhelming way, but in a way that adds to her quality of life. I want to take her on walks. I want to take her on hikes. I want her to be able to pick out a toy at the store if that’s something she can enjoy.

That said, one of the most important lessons reactive dog parents learn is this: our dogs don’t need to do everything.

Think about it this way, imagine someone constantly telling you how fun theme parks are, so you go every single day… even though just the thought of them gives you crippling anxiety. Maybe over time you’d build up to enjoying it. Or maybe you’d realize that never going again would still lead to a happy, fulfilled life.

That’s how we need to think about our dogs.

If a situation is stressful for them, even if we believe it should be fun, it’s okay to choose peace instead. Sometimes the best thing we can give our dogs is quality, low-stress time at home. And that realization alone can feel incredibly freeing.

With that mindset, I wanted to share our goals for 2026, hoping they inspire other reactive and senior dog parents. Remember: a win is a win. Even if it seems small to others, if it’s big for you and your dog, it deserves to be celebrated. You know your dog better than anyone else.

1. Explore More Sniffspots

   
   

   

We tried our first Sniffspot in 2025, and it was everything and more. It was completely trigger-free, mentally enriching, and absolutely exhausting, in the best way. Marlee slept nearly the entire day afterward.

This year, I’d love to explore new Sniffspots, try Sniffspot hikes, and make them a regular part of our routine.

2. Go on Walks

   
   

   

For many dog owners, daily walks are a given. For reactive dog owners, they can feel like an unreachable goal.

I’m incredibly grateful to have a backyard that allows Marlee to get plenty of outdoor time safely. But by the end of 2026, I’d love for walks to be part of our routine, something we can enjoy together as a form of healthy movement and bonding.

3. Travel Together

   
   

   

Because I work remotely, I want to take advantage of that freedom while I’m young and (human) child-free. While some trips are absolutely better without a dog, especially a reactive one, I’d love for Marlee to experience a peaceful mountain getaway or a calm change of scenery.

This will take a lot of training and planning, but I’m excited to challenge myself by finding reactive-dog-friendly Airbnbs, outings, and travel routines.

4. Advocate for Your Dog

   
   

Advocacy is one of the most important things we can do for reactive dogs and bully breeds. The stigma surrounding both is wildly inaccurate and harmful.

This year, I want to continue educating, advocating, and standing up for our dogs, whether that’s online or during real-life interactions. Calm, mature education can make a huge difference.

5. Donate to Shelters

   
   

As the new year started, I began going through Marlee’s belongings and realized how much lightly used gear we have. I plan to donate supplies regularly, not only to clear space, but to give back.

I know myself, and I know Marlee will continue to be spoiled, so quarterly clean-outs feel like a realistic goal. When adopting isn’t an option, donating, whether supplies or money, can truly change lives.

6. Foster a Dog

   
   

While I’m not ready to adopt another dog just yet, fostering feels like the perfect middle ground. It allows me to help shelters, give dogs a temporary safe home, and see how Marlee does with a sibling.

Fostering plays such a critical role in helping dogs find their forever homes, and it’s something I’m really excited to experience this year.

7. Find a Small-Group Daycare or Boarding Option

   
   

   

Right now, my mom is my amazing backup, Marlee’s trusted “daycare” and sleepover spot. But I’d love to have another option in case of emergencies, travel, or busy periods.

My goal is to find a place that understands reactive dogs, offers small group or individual care, and prioritizes low-stress environments, for Marlee and for my peace of mind.If you’re in Central Florida and have recommendations, please leave them in the comments!

I’m genuinely excited about this year. I have big plans for Marlee and myself, and I can’t wait to continue sharing our journey with you. I also plan to deepen my involvement in the reactive dog and bully breed community.

In fact… I’m currently working on a Marlee-inspired project that I am incredibly passionate about. More details will be coming soon, and I truly can’t wait to share it with you all.

What are your New Year’s goals for you and your dog?Let me know in the comments, I’d love to hear them