Did you know that almost half of American households had a dog in 2024? If you have a dog, you probably enjoy spending time with them and going on walks together. Walks, and other forms of physical activity, allow you to bond with your pet while doing something that benefits both of you. In addition to being fun, staying active together can improve you and your dog’s health.

Can Having a Pet Help Me Stay Active?

Yes! If you have a pet, you may notice that you’re more active because of them. Whether it be for walks, grooming or other tasks, being a pet owner can require responsibility that comes with extra movement. This is especially true for people who own dogs, as they are more likely to engage in regular physical activity than those who do not have a dog. In fact, more than half of dog owners report meeting the weekly physical activity recommendation.

You and Your Dog Benefit from Physical Activity

Exercise boosts physical and emotional well-being in both dogs and humans. Owning a dog is associated with improved heart function, a reduced risk of obesity and better mental health. Being active with your dog can improve blood pressure, reduce joint stiffness and increase your sense of social connection. It can also strengthen your bones and muscles and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Frequent movement with your pet can even lower your risk of certain health conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and various cancers.

Not only is physical activity good for you, but it can also help keep your dog happy and healthy! Working out with your dog can reduce their likelihood of breathing problems, obesity, joint pain, diabetes and cancer. It makes your dog stronger physically, while strengthening the emotional bond between the two of you. Being active also releases endorphins that boost their mood and reduce stress. Regular activity might even make your dog smarter, because exercise improves brain function. This can improve memory and problem-solving ability, as well as prevent boredom.

How Can I Move with My Dog?

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How Much Activity Is Safe for My Dog?

While exercise is a crucial component of pet health, it is also important to know your dog’s limitations. Breed and age can influence how much physical activity your dog needs. You should also be aware of any existing health conditions that may affect your dog’s ability to exercise. If you are unsure of what your dog can comfortably manage, consult a veterinarian to discuss your pet’s capabilities.

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What About Other Safety Concerns?

Always make sure that your dog is properly hydrated before and during physical activity. In general, dogs need at least one ounce of water per pound of bodyweight each day. However, hydration needs may vary depending on the weather, your dog’s activity level and length of the exercise session.

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It is also important to consider your dog’s surroundings during exercise, including the surface temperature where they are walking or running. Dog paws can be sensitive, especially if your pet hasn’t been active outside recently. You can help protect your dog’s paws by walking them on pavement in cooler weather. This will toughen the pads on their feet, so they are conditioned for when outdoor surfaces become hotter.

Exercising with your pet can be a fun way to spend time together, and moving more throughout the day improves health outcomes for both you and them. Choose an activity you both love and enjoy the experience together!

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