If you are one of millions having trouble sticking to an exercise program, help could be as close as your best buddy at the end of the leash. Studies show that dogs are actually your best workout partner! Energetic and enthusiastic, dogs are always ready to go for a stroll and won't convince you to skip your next workout.
A survey of dog owners, conducted at the University of Western Australia and published in Health Promotion Journal of Australia, revealed that dogs are great motivators for walking because they:
- Provide a strong motivation to maintain a program
- Are good walking companions
- Provide good social support when exercising
Is dog walking really effective exercise? Dog owners who reported walking their dogs were almost 25 percent less likely to be obese than people without dogs. In fact, according to a new study, dog owners end up walking more than 23,000 miles with their pet during its lifetime—that's almost as far as walking around the world! Even though your dog may not forget your daily walk, you may be tempted to skip the walk and simply let your dog out for a solo romp in the backyard instead, especially as the weather heats up. But with a little planning, you can set yourself up for successfully adhering to a routine.
First, establish a walking schedule; plan to walk 30 minutes total each day. You can break this up if you need to, choosing a 10-minute walk in the morning and a 20-minute walk in the evening. Or maybe three 10-minute walks throughout the day, whatever works best for your lifestyle. Second, remember to write it down. When you "schedule" your walks into each day, you’ll feel more responsible keeping your appointments. Best of all, your dog will also get used to the routine and remind you when "it’s time!"
A few special considerations for starting a workout program with your dog:
- Always be receptive to your dog’s needs. If he or she stops or begins limping during a walk, don’t continue. Carry the dog or arrange for a ride back home.
- Young puppies should work up to walks over time. Fitness running is not recommended for puppies, so as not to damage the growth plates of their bones.
- Try not to walk your dog during the hottest part of the day (typically 10am – 2pm), as they can quickly become overheated, potentially leading to life-threatening heat stroke.
So, grab a leash, call the pooch, and go for a walk—today and every day! Jumpstarting a healthy lifestyle program is as easy as taking the dog for a walk!
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