7 Ways To Incorporate Your Dog Into Your Exercise Routine

Wanna integrate more activity into your day? Consider bringing your dog along for the ride. Here are 7 fun ways to exercise with your dog.

Working out alone can be boring and this might make you skip it from time to time. So unless you have a close friend to work out with you, you’ll want to involve your dog in your daily exercise routine.

Below are our fun ideas to get everyone involved in a fitness regime, including your four-legged friend.

7 Exercises For Both You And Your Dog

If you’re looking for fun ways to incorporate your dog into your exercise routine, check out these sports that can be performed along with your beloved pet:

1. Walking

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recommended walking time for an adult is 150 minutes a week, particularly if not doing any other more strenuous exercise.

In addition, walking is good for your mental well-being and a fantastic stress reliever for both you and your pet.

Although taking the dog along for a walk is a more common sight, cats can be trained to enjoy a daily stroll by following these tips. Ideally, rather than doing one longer walk, split them into a 30-minute walk in the morning and another later in the afternoon.

2. Hiking

If you enjoy the outdoors, hiking provides much better views than merely setting the incline on a treadmill. By varying your pace and the terrain, you can get a more rounded workout.

If you are planning to walk off the beaten track with your dog, then first consider the following:

Check the weather report;
See if your dog needs to remain on a leash;
Check if wild animals are sometimes in the area like bears or cougars, and remember that eagles can prey on small dogs;
Wear footwear and clothing appropriate for the terrain;
Bring pet refuse bags to clean after your dog;
Pack a simple first aid kit;
Ensure someone is aware of your intended route and likely return time;
Carry a fully charged phone with a tracking device.

3. Running

Younger, fitter dogs often enjoy running with their owners. However, excessive running can cause life-long damage for puppies whose bones are still developing.

If you are concerned about whether running is appropriate for your dog based on their age, breed, or health condition, then seek the advice of your veterinarian.

Here are some other recommendations if you are considering running with your pet for the first time:

Allow your dog to “do their business” and spend some time sniffing while you warm up;
Run in short intervals, so it is more interesting for the dog;
Know the rules are for your area if road running;
Ensure that the pavement isn’t too hot for your dog’s feet;
Thoroughly check your dog for ticks upon your return, especially if in a grassy area.

4. Swimming

Many dog breeds love playing in or around water. If you have a swimming pool, pond, or lake access, consider teaching your dog to swim alongside you.

You may want to entice them in with a frisbee or favorite toy until they are comfortable.

Never stray too far from shore, and you may want to invest in a life vest for your pup.

5. Obstacle Course

Just as some dogs love to run or swim, others are bred to excel at agility and obstacle courses. Taking a class with your dog is an excellent starting point and then consider making simple obstacle courses of your own.

For example, hoops, ramps, and tunnels can be made out of various objects, and weaving between poles is a fantastic exercise for both of you.

6. Biking

Dogs can enjoy a hearty run while you ride your bike alongside. If biking is new to you and your pup, try walking on one side of your bike for a few days until it gets comfortable.

You can then try short distances combining various speeds and areas, though don’t also forget to consider:

Keeping your dog safely secured;
Avoiding areas with too many distractions or heavy traffic;
Consistently monitoring how tired your dog is and plan your route accordingly.

7. Yoga

Your dog can also partake in downward dog and stretch alongside you. A Jacksonville yogi created poses and asanas that are beneficial for both humans and their canine companions.

Some yoga positions benefit from the additional weight of your dog, whereas others they can be trained to do on their own.

Dog yoga has been shown to reduce stress and create social opportunities for all involved.

The Takeaway

Whether you are looking for a dog weight loss exercise plan or simply finding ways to incorporate more time with your pet, we are confident that your dog will love getting more involved with your day.

Be sure to always have sufficient water on hand and a collapsible water bowl to keep your dog hydrated.