Originally shared in the Cosmic Dogcast Newsletter · January 2026
New Year, Real-Life Growth
Hello Dog-Loving Friends,
Happy New Year!
As we step into a new year, I find myself reflecting on what resolutions really mean for our dogs and for us.
This year is not about perfection or rigid goals. It is about intention, growth, and creating a life where our dogs feel confident, fulfilled, and truly happy.
Resolutions do not need to look like obedience checklists or unrealistic expectations. Instead, we can focus on the bigger picture. Helping our dogs live in a healthy headspace. Teaching them how to make good choices. Supporting them as they move through the world with more ease and joy.
Training is not just about behaviors. It is about building skills, trust, and resilience so our dogs can thrive in real life.
If you would like to learn more about the philosophy behind this approach, visit our Training Methods page where we explain how relationship-based learning builds lasting change.
Learning Never Stops
This year feels especially meaningful as I continue my studies in canine behavior. Diving deeper into the science of learning and the “why” behind what we see strengthens the work we do together.
Everything I learn is filtered through one goal: making training practical, compassionate, and supportive for both dogs and their humans.
At home, I am seeing encouraging changes with my own four sweet but spicy pups. Living with them reminds me daily that progress is not linear. Growth can be quiet. Small mindset shifts often create the biggest breakthroughs.
Watching them gain confidence and settle more easily reinforces how powerful relationship-based training truly is.
If your dog struggles with confidence or big emotions, our Reactivity & Behavior page explains how emotional support creates meaningful change.
A Fresh Start Together
To help you kick off the year with intention, I am offering $50 off all group classes as a New Year gift.
Group classes are a wonderful way to build real-life skills, strengthen your relationship, and help your dog navigate the world with greater confidence and ease.
Whether your goals include calmer leash walks, polite greetings, improved focus, or simply more joy in daily routines, I am grateful to be part of your journey.
Here is to a year filled with learning, growth, and happy, healthy humans and dogs.
Cardboard Chaos: A Simple Enrichment Game for Real Life
With colder weather rolling in, meeting enrichment needs can feel harder. Maybe time is tight. Maybe energy is low. Maybe a full training session is not realistic that day.
The good news is enrichment does not have to be complicated.
Cardboard Chaos is an easy, low-prep game that lets your dog hunt, think, and work for their food while having an absolute blast.
What You’ll Need
- Cardboard boxes in different sizes
- Safe recyclables, snuffle mats, towels, paper rolls, measuring cups
- Your dog’s meal or favorite treats
How to Play
Place safe items inside the boxes to create layers and mild obstacles.
Scatter food or treats throughout.
Set the boxes down and let your dog sniff, dig, and problem-solve.
Sit back and enjoy watching their brain light up.
That is it.
Why We Love This Game
Cardboard Chaos taps into natural foraging instincts and engages the thinking brain. It helps build:
- Optimism toward novelty
- Confidence
- Problem-solving skills
- Calm, productive engagement
Most importantly, it gives your dog a meaningful outlet even on busy or low-energy days.
Get creative. Switch up box sizes. Add new textures. Make it your own.
Ready to Start the Year Strong?
If you would like structured support, our group classes focus on real-life skills, enrichment, emotional resilience, and connection.
Explore upcoming classes and start building confidence one small win at a time.
Because growth is not about perfection.
It is about progress.
Warmly,
Kathleen Valentine
Certified Dog Trainer & Behavior Specialist
