Consistent exercise provides both people and dogs with physical and mental benefits. Not only does exercise release endorphins, but it also helps improve coordination and balance for you and your pet. As if you needed another reason to workout with your dog, research has shown that people are more likely to continue with a weight-loss program if they exercise with their furry companion. Double win! Here are five pet-friendly workouts to keep you both active.
- Game of Fetch
Some dogs were born to retrieve. Whether it’s a tennis ball, a Frisbee or bone, go outside and play a game of fetch. While your pup goes bounding after the ball, engage in some muscle-building exercises like crunches, lunges and squats. For some cardio, race him for the ball and squeeze in some sprints.
- Doga
Yep. “Doga,” as in dog + yoga, is a thing and it’s all about the pet-human bond. Not only will your pooch act as a prop for your poses, but you’ll help him or her try some poses of their own. After all, your pup has already mastered downward dog.
- Go for a Swim
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that you and your dog can both do. While most dogs love to swim, not all are comfortable in the water. Make sure to slowly introduce swimming to your dog by having him or her walk into shallow water with you. Keep water safety in mind, just as you would with children. And if swimming seems to not be your dog's cup of tea, consider one of the other exercises on this list.
- Resistance Walking
Sand provides resistance, so walking on the beach is inherently more demanding than walking on concrete or other hard surfaces. Visit a nearby dog-friendly beach to shake up your routine walk around the neighborhood.
- Paddle boarding
What better way to exercise with your dog than paddle boarding? While your canine co-pilot rides on the nose, you’ll get a killer ab workout in. Chances are, you’ll both take a dip in the water, so make sure your dog is wearing a life jacket.Before embarking on a physical fitness routine with your dog, consult your veterinarian. Just like physical fitness programs for humans, steady, progressive conditioning is the best approach for dogs. When conditioning a dog to increase fitness, consistency is a key to success. It is far better to take a 20-minute walk every day than a 2-hour walk on Sunday. A slow, steady build of intensity over time helps avoid injury and is more comfortable for the dog. For dogs that require additional challenges, you can advance to more intense activities like field trialing, flyball or agility competition.This article was written by Dr. Michael Sanwald, veterinarian at www.FetchMyVet.com.
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