Benefits of Dog Ownership: They Keep You Fit
Researchers at Michigan State University recently found those dog owners who walk their dogs regularly were 34% were more likely to get the recommended amount of weekly exercise. According to this study, owning a dog is not only a motivation for dog walking but a stimulus for more overall activity. Dog owners spent more time each week doing moderate or high-intensity exercise than non-dog owners – and that’s good news for their health.
Unfortunately, not all dog owners walk their dogs, and those that don’t aren’t more likely to get the recommended amount of physical activity (150 minutes per week) than non-dog owners – and they don’t get the fitness benefits either. Researchers point out that sending a public message to get outside and walk your dog could help reluctant exercisers get off the couch and get moving.
Dogs are a strong motivating force to exercise. Unlike humans who are reluctant to get off the couch, dogs have unbridled enthusiasm for roaming up and down the street – and some make wonderful running companions that are ready to go the extra mile. Of course, a dog should be in shape for running and should start out running gradually with lots of stops for water breaks.
Exercising with Your Dog Benefits Human and Dog
If you’re a dog owner, don’t forget that exercise is good for your dog too. Obesity is a common problem as a dog ages, and a brisk daily walk can potentially add years to your dog’s life – and reduce your veterinary bills too. It also helps them release some of that canine nervous energy that can lead to chewed up shoes and holes dug in the yard when your dog becomes bored. Exercise is a win-win situation for dog and human.
Some other interesting observations researchers made from this dog-human exercise study. Younger dogs are more likely to be walked by their owners than older dogs, and larger dogs go for longer walks than smaller ones. So, if you want to get in top shape, adopt a large dog and walk them every day. Don’t forget to check your humane society before choosing a dog. There are plenty of dogs there that would love to take a walk with you.
References:
Eurekalert.org. “Grab the Leash: Dog Walkers More Likely to Reach Exercise Benchmarks”
Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.
Love my 3 dogs, 2 of whom came from a shelter, and love this article! It’s great to encourage people to choose larger dogs, as these often have a tougher time getting adopted than small dogs. But beware of becoming a pet owner without fully appreciating the commitment that it is: don’t adopt a big dog thinking you’re going to get more exercise, and then neglect to walk it daily! That would only lead to you AND your dog being underexercised, holes dug in your yard, and chewed-up shoes!
It’s also really hard to ignore a dog (that is used to going for daily walks) who impatiently sits by the door with her tail wagging after dinner. Who can say no to that??? I always feel better after that walk because I know I’m doing something great for my health and hers too.
My 96 pound Black Lab Halle loves to be walked. I think she could walk all day if somebody would take her! We go for short walks 3-4 times a day and I wouldn’t be getting that extra exercise if it weren’t for her! Thanks Halle!