Shape up with your furry companion
Get active and bond with your furry companion! Embrace the outdoors and boost your physical activity by walking your dog Discover the benefits of a healthy lifestyle with your four-legged friend by your side
Editors note: It is advisable to consult with your doctor before commencing any new exercise routine. If you experience any pain, it is important to cease immediately.
If you find it difficult to initiate or uphold a consistent exercise routine, the solution might be right in front of you, waiting faithfully at your feet.
Walking your dog is an excellent way to improve your fitness level and has benefits for both you and your furry friend.
Despite the fact that there are approximately 69 million households in the United States that own at least one dog, many dog owners do not take the time to walk their pets regularly or do so infrequently. Furthermore, a survey conducted in 2011 by the Journal of Physical Activity and Health revealed that only 61% of dog owners walked their dogs for at least 10 minutes at a time, whereas a mere 27% managed to meet the recommended 150 minutes of weekly moderate-intensity physical activity for adults set by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For those who are not very physically active, let your furry friend be your motivation to go outside and get moving.
According to Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club, if you can keep yourself healthy and strengthen the bond between you and your dog while also ensuring their happiness and well-being, that's fantastic. Klein emphasized that canine obesity is the top preventable health issue among American dogs.
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Affection from a dog has proven to have medicinal effects, as indicated by a recent study.
According to a 2015 journal article, numerous studies have shown that individuals who walk their dogs are more than 2.5 times as likely to engage in moderate-intensity physical activity. This is one of the reasons why the American Kennel Club has developed the AKC Fit Dog program. Dog owners who commit to walking their pets for a minimum of 30 minutes, five times a week for at least three months, are eligible to receive a free magnet. Additionally, those who walk their dogs for at least 15 minutes, 10 times a week for a minimum of three months, also qualify for this program.
Regular walks are essential for the mental and physical well-being of dogs, just like they are for humans. Dr. Victoria Tomasino, owner and medical director at GoodVets Boynton Beach and GoodVets Delray in Palm Beach County, Florida, emphasized the importance of getting dogs out in nature, allowing them to breathe in fresh air and soak in sunlight. According to her, this is equally beneficial for dogs as it is for people, as it enlivens the senses of both parties.
In addition to the aforementioned benefits, incorporating mental and physical stimulation into a dog's routine can also deter problematic behaviors. Dawn Celapino, founder of Leash Your Fitness, a business based in San Diego, highlights that most dogs suffer from boredom and require mental stimulation and bonding with their owners. Unfortunately, many people do not recognize this crucial aspect of dog care.
Things to consider before going outside
Before you grab a leash, it's important to keep a few things in mind, according to Klein. It's crucial that your dog is familiar with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Additionally, make sure to gradually increase the amount of time and distance you walk with your dog, as they need to adjust to new levels of exercise just like humans do.
Flat-faced breeds such as pugs often experience breathing difficulties and are unable to engage in high-intensity or long-duration workouts. Older dogs should obtain approval from a veterinarian before undertaking any new physical activities. Additionally, all breeds can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, therefore it is advisable to always check the weather conditions.
Regular walks are good for a dogs mental and physical health, and the stimulation can also help quash problematic canine behaviors.
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Klein stated that it is important to understand your dog's signals. If your dog is uncooperative or uninterested in going for a walk, it is advisable to find an alternative activity. Tomasino concurred that not all dogs find walks enjoyable, noting that some high-energy breeds may prefer to relax on the couch. She emphasized the significance of respecting each dog's individual personality in such situations.
Fortunately, there are numerous alternatives to stay active with your furry companion. You can engage in activities such as hiking, swimming, biking, in-line skating, playing Frisbee, or even participate in circuit training sessions with your dog. Additionally, there are organized and competitive herding and retrieving events that replicate the tasks certain dog breeds were originally bred for. If you're seeking a more adventurous experience, you can try skijoring, where you attach yourself to a larger-breed dog and enjoy cross-country skiing together. Another option is canicross, or urban mushing, where you connect yourself to your dog using a waist harness and bungee leash, and embark on a refreshing run. Consider signing up for CNN's Fitness, But Better newsletter series, a comprehensive seven-part guide crafted by experts, to seamlessly incorporate a healthy routine into your life.
Begin by taking it slow and making safety your top priority.
No matter what type of exercise you engage in, always be mindful of your pet's health and well-being. For instance, when it comes to biking, keep in mind that it is much easier for the person pedaling than it is for the dog running alongside. Tomasino highlighted that he often observes people riding bikes with their dogs, where the dog is gasping for breath and limping, while the person remains completely focused on biking, oblivious to their dog's struggle.
She also objected to utilizing retractable leashes for activities that involve higher speeds, such as in-line skating. "With retractable leashes, you lack control over your dog," Tomasino explained. "This can be hazardous for both you and your dog if another dog approaches. It is crucial to keep them close to you in order to promptly correct their behavior and alter your direction if necessary."
According to Dr. Dana Varble, the chief veterinary officer for the North American Veterinary Community, sleeping with your pets can be highly beneficial for them. Delilah, a 10-year-old Siberian husky, humorously questions whether there's enough space for you in the bed.
Courtesy Brawner Raymond
"Is there a rule that says everyone can't fit in the bed? Personally, I'm fine with it as long as I get the most spacious area to stretch out." -- Beast, a 106-pound European Doberman, is seen on the bottom right of the photo alongside his siblings Buttercup, Bear, Joey (resting on their human), and Bailey. Photo credit: Stephanie Moody/Rue's Rescue & Sanctuary.
"Hi I'm Tessie, a 4-year-old Australian cattle dog. I love sleeping with my girls so much that when they go to the store i snuggle with their bed toys until they get back."
David Allan
"In the animal world, animals who are bonded tend to sleep together," Varble said. Lynx (top) and Luna (bottom) are 2-year-old Siberian Forest cats.
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"Come on, Dad, that's enough sports for tonight. It's time for bed." -- Ellie, a 6-year-old German shorthaired pointer, who likes to sleep under the covers next to her humans.
Courtesy Trent Loyd
According to Varble, dogs and cats that sleep in their owner's bed often develop a stronger bond and trust with their human companions. This act is seen as a significant display of trust from their side. Banshee, a 6-year-old Husky mix, is a rescued pet who managed to overcome heartworms.
Courtesy of Stephanie Moody/Rue's Rescue & Sanctuary.
According to Varble, when a dog faces away from you, it demonstrates an extraordinary level of trust. This is because it puts them in a vulnerable position where they cannot keep a lookout for potential dangers. Mason, a 3-year-old lab mix, happily sleeps beside his father every night, but he despises having blankets over him.
Courtesy Trent Loyd
According to Varble, dogs and cats that have a stronger bond with their owners experience added health advantages. This includes a boost in oxytocin and dopamine, which are known as the feel-good hormones. "I don't snore!" Luna, a 2-year-old Siberian Forest cat exclaimed.
Make sure to keep all your pets protected from fleas, ticks, and internal parasites by ensuring they are up to date on prevention. This is especially important if you allow them to sleep in your bed. According to Varble's advice, Molly (left), a 15-year-old cockapoo mix, loves snuggling in her human's armpit, while Evie (right) prefers the end of the bed and strongly dislikes being awakened early in the morning.
Courtesy Ryan Pollyea
"Animals possess distinct personalities similar to humans," stated Varble. "Just as some individuals prefer sleeping with lights on while others favor complete darkness, different pets may exhibit varying levels of protectiveness or assertiveness." Evie, a 4-year-old blend of Jack Russell terrier, has been observed to seek solace by crawling onto her owner whenever she craves more affection."
According to Varble, dogs that sleep at the foot of the bed, facing the door, tend to display a more protective nature. "I'm relieved that Beast, the bed hog, is gone so I can finally catch up on my sleep," said Buttercup, a beagle-bulldog mix who is 4 years old.
Courtesy Stephanie Moody/Rue's Rescue & Sanctuary
Lynx, a 2-year-old Siberian Forest cat, may appear angelic, but when night falls, he has a tendency to stroll or perch on his humans and sniff their breath. Additionally, at around 3 a.m., he finds delight in stretching his 2-foot-long body over their necks.
Is sleeping with your pets good for them?
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Next, it is important to maintain patience while your dog is in the process of learning a new activity. According to Celapino, it is advisable to initially take things slow. Your dog may not immediately comprehend your desired commands, hence they require time to progress and develop their skills. However, it is crucial not to underestimate the capabilities of dogs, as they are capable of accomplishing numerous tasks.
During a recent canine-human fitness class at a local park, Celapino highlighted the importance of engaging both dogs and their owners. To illustrate her point, she instructed the dogs to sit while their humans performed exercises before embarking on a joint run around the park. Celapino emphasized the constant movement and occasional breaks in her classes, explaining that these elements require dogs to think and engage in all their actions, ultimately leading to fatigue.
Celapino further advised pet owners to prioritize their bond with their dogs during exercise activities. She emphasized the significance of staying present and avoiding distractions, such as using phones, in order to fully connect with their pets.
Klein agreed. "What dogs enjoy most is spending time with their people," he said.
Melanie Radzicki McManus is a freelance writer who specializes in hiking, travel and fitness.
