Starting the Year Right: Creating Lasting Behaviour Change for Your Dog in 2026

January is traditionally a time of reflection, reset, and renewed commitment

For many dog owners, it is also the point at which behavioural challenges that have been tolerated for months begin to feel unsustainable. Increased reactivity on walks, anxiety when left alone, noise sensitivities, or tension within multi-dog households often become more noticeable after the disruptions of the festive period.

As a Clinical Animal Behaviourist based in London, January is often one of the busiest times of year, and for good reason. The start of the year provides an ideal opportunity to address behaviour concerns properly, using structured, evidence-based behaviour modification rather than quick fixes.

Why Behaviour Issues Often Escalate Over Winter

The winter months can place significant pressure on dogs’ emotional well-being. Shorter daylight hours, reduced exercise opportunities, disrupted routines, and an influx of visitors over the festive period all contribute to elevated stress levels. For dogs already predisposed to anxiety, fear, or frustration, this can result in behaviour deteriorating noticeably by January.

Common issues I see at this time of year include:

Increased reactivity towards other dogs or people
Heightened separation-related distress
Noise phobias following fireworks
Regression in training
Inter-dog conflict within the home

These behaviours are not signs of stubbornness or “bad habits”. They are indicators that a dog is struggling to cope with their environment.

Why January Is an Ideal Time for Behaviour Change

From a clinical perspective, January offers several advantages when beginning a behaviour programme:

More predictable routines once the festive period has ended
Greater owner motivation to implement structured plans
Reduced environmental pressure compared to spring and summer
Early intervention, before behaviours become further rehearsed

Behaviour change is not about suppressing symptoms. It is about identifying the underlying emotional drivers and modifying them safely and ethically. Starting early allows for structured, evidence-based behaviour modification techniques, such as gradual desensitisation and counter-conditioning, to be implemented effectively

Avoiding the “New Year, New Dog” Trap

January is also the time when misinformation spreads rapidly online. Well-meaning owners often feel pressure to “fix” behaviour quickly, leading them to try aversive training tools or unqualified advice.

It is important to understand that:

Behaviour change is non-linear
Progress is measured in emotional resilience, not obedience
Setbacks are part of the process, not failures

A dog does not need to be “reset”. They need to be understood.

When to Seek Professional Behaviour Support

If your dog’s behaviour is affecting their quality of life, or yours, it is appropriate to seek professional help sooner rather than later. This is particularly important if behaviour includes:

Aggression or biting
Extreme fear or panic
Inability to settle or relax
Escalating reactivity
Breakdown in multi-dog relationships

Working with a Clinical Animal Behaviourist in London ensures that your dog receives support that is both scientifically sound and welfare-focused.

Small, Consistent Changes Create the Biggest Impact

One of the most powerful messages I share with clients at the start of the year is this: meaningful behaviour change rarely comes from dramatic interventions. It comes from consistency, clarity, and compassion.

January does not need to be about unrealistic resolutions. It can be about committing to better understanding your dog and giving them the tools they need to cope with the world around them.

If you are considering behaviour support this year, early intervention can make a significant difference, not just to behaviour outcomes, but to long-term emotional well-being.

If you're struggling with any aspect of your dog's behaviour Get in touch with Matty now!
Find out more about Beyond Reactivity’s behaviour programmes.

This blog is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute behavioural advice and is not a substitute for professional behavioural and training advice. Always seek advice for you and your dog from a qualified behaviourist or trainer if your dog has behaviour problems or requires training.

Photo by Marius Cern on Unsplash