National Pet Obesity Awareness Day: The Perfect Time to Get Active with Your Furry Friend

Alright, this one may sound like a joke but, seriously, National Pet Obesity Awareness Day is a genuine thing. It’s a reminder that our pets rely on us to keep them happy, healthy, and, yes, in good shape! But let’s take a fresh look at how we can enjoy quality time with our pets while also helping them stay fit - and how we, as pet owners, benefit in the process

Taking your dog out for a walk isn’t just about the basics of bathroom breaks and getting fresh air. Walks, when done right, are an opportunity to boost your dog’s fitness, improve their mental health, and even help you stay active too. Dogs need exercise just like we do, but that doesn’t mean walks have to be boring, predictable, or slow. There are plenty of ways to level up your walk and make it fun for both you and your dog.

Here are some ideas that turn a basic stroll into a workout, without it feeling like one:

Dogs love variety, and so do our bodies! Instead of walking at the same pace, mix it up by adding bursts of energy to your route. Try alternating between walking and jogging every few minutes. Your dog will appreciate the faster pace, and these intervals will get both your heart rates up without exhausting either of you.

Plus, interval training is proven to be effective for weight management and cardiovascular health. What better way to bond with your dog than sharing in a healthier routine together?

If you pass by a park, playground, or a series of steps, take advantage of these natural obstacles. Encourage your dog to hop over low walls, climb stairs, or weave between posts. You can do these exercises together, keeping both of you engaged. It's like a mini obstacle course, and your dog will see it as playtime rather than just another walk.

For added fun, bring a frisbee or ball and stop for a quick game of fetch during your walk. Short bursts of play can help break up the monotony of a walk and increase both of your physical activity levels.

Your dog’s nose craves new scents, and your body craves new challenges! Take your dog on different routes - try trails, hills, or forest paths to engage different muscle groups and keep your dog mentally stimulated. Walking on uneven terrain, like grass, gravel, or sand, adds a level of challenge for both of you. It’s a great way to improve balance, coordination, and muscle tone without putting too much pressure on joints.

A walk doesn’t just have to be physical; it can be a training session, too. Work on commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “heel” while you’re out and about. Not only will this keep your dog mentally sharp, but it can also help reinforce discipline and provide breaks from intense walking. Even teaching them simple tricks along the walk - like spinning in circles or jumping - adds fun and fitness into the mix.

While you’re training your dog, think about using this time to check your own posture and movement. Are you walking upright? Engaging your core? Walking with intention can be a form of mindfulness and a workout rolled into one!

Now, this doesn’t mean overloading your dog or yourself with heavy backpacks, but a little added weight can turn an everyday walk into a more intense workout. You can wear a light-weighted vest, and if your dog is up for it, there are backpacks designed for dogs that can hold lightweight items like treats or water bottles. Make sure not to exceed 10-15% of your dog’s body weight, and start small.

The added resistance will increase calorie burn and muscle engagement, which is great for weight management, both yours and your dog’s.

If your dog has boundless energy, why not go for a run together? Running is one of the most effective ways to burn calories and get the heart pumping. Just make sure to start slow if your dog isn't used to running long distances. Alternatively, if you enjoy cycling, you can invest in a bike attachment to safely have your dog run alongside you. This is ideal for dogs who love to sprint and have lots of energy. Be sure to keep the pace comfortable for your dog and stick to soft surfaces to avoid injury

Believe it or not, doggy fitness classes are a thing! You can find group exercises that combine agility training, obedience drills, and cardio for both you and your pup. These classes are a great way to meet other dog owners while engaging in activities that challenge your dog’s body and mind. Plus, they’re often tailored to all fitness levels, so everyone can join in

Consistency is key to any fitness regimen, and the same goes for your pet. Finding new and fun ways to exercise with your dog is great, but keeping it regular is what will truly make a difference. Try to make time each day for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity with your dog. It doesn’t have to be perfect; the goal is to move and enjoy each other’s company.

Exercise is important, but we can’t ignore the role diet plays in both our health and our pets’ health. National Pet Obesity Awareness Day is a gentle nudge for us to evaluate what we’re feeding our pets. Just like us, pets need a balanced diet that provides all the nutrients they need without the excess calories.

We control what goes into our pets' bowls. Sometimes, it's easy to spoil them with too many treats or table scraps, but this can quickly add up. Instead, focus on portion control and high-quality, nutrient-rich food that supports your pet’s overall health.

Getting active with your pet can strengthen your bond, improve your health, and keep both of you on track for a long, happy life together. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a playful run, or even a quick game of fetch, every step counts. Just as we care for our pets’ diet and fitness, we’re also reminded of the importance of our own wellbeing.