Key Benefits of Exercising with Your Dog

Exercising with your dog isn’t only beneficial for you, but also for your pet. In this article, Jordan Walker, a pet blog enthusiast, and the lead content curator of Coops and Cages, explains the benefits of having dogs as exercise buddies. 

Flip Flops Dog

Obesity is one of the most common issues that could cause a number of diseases to humans, or could worsen an illness a person is diagnosed with. Thus, to avoid further complications, many decide to work out and modify their lifestyle to lose weight. However, not all are able to succeed in their weight loss regime. Same goes to your furry pals. Obesity in dogs may also lead to various health problems, such as an increased demand on their vital organs, and a variety of animal diseases. Whether you help them exercise to lose weight or simply keep them fit, it is always better to have your dog as your exercise buddy so that both of you can reap its benefits. The following are some reasons to inspire you:  

Motivation

Beach Dogs

Remember that time when you planned on having an early morning run, but later on, you found it hard to leave the comforts of your bed? Remember, dogs don’t just live to stay in the timber dog kennel. If your pet wants to do some outdoor exercises at least 3-4 days a week, he would really try to get your attention so you wouldn’t miss out your weekly routine. Aside from that, dogs don’t tire easily, so they could definitely motivate you, especially at times when you feel like keeping your morning exercises short. Your dog can push you to run a few more blocks, or take longer walks than usual. This can be quite a win-win situation with regard to fitness for you and your pet.  

Safety

Biking with Dog

For early morning runners, safety is one of the most common concerns. Since there aren’t too many people out at dawn, one could feel unsafe. As a result, they may decide not to perform early morning exercises. Should you feel doubtful about your safety, remember that dogs have extraordinary senses, and are easily aware of other harmful animals nearby. They can be great exercise companions because they can scare off other animals, and protect their owners from people who may not have good intentions. Just make sure to keep them on a leash while you’re out. Here’s a piece of advice. It would be great if you could choose well-lighted areas as your exercise venue to lessen the risk of accidents. 

Bonding

Roller Skating with Dog

Dogs need your presence, time, and affection to stay happy. If you give it to them, they are more likely to behave, and they could even reward you with their unconditional loyalty. In order to keep your pets in their best possible state and condition, it is important to bond with them from time to time.

Bonding with your pet doesn’t always mean play time. Taking them out for a walk, a morning run, or even swimming could already make a difference. In fact, it is considered a great way to bond with them.   

Dog Walking

With all its great benefits, exercising with your dog is something you should take into consideration. If your dog isn’t used to doing so, it may take some time for him to eventually get used to the habit. Once your dog is trained and is pretty much accustomed to being your exercise buddy, you may opt to try out other forms of exercise, such as hiking and other fun activities.

Image Source: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

 

JordanAuthor: Jordan Walker

Jordan likes to write many pet-related blogs, and is also the lead content curator for Coops and Cages. His passion for animals is matched by his passion for “attempting” to play the guitar. Catch more of him on Google+ or Twitter: @CoopsAndCages