Get fit: 6 dog-friendly exercises you can do with your pup

If you want to spend more time with your dog while getting fit, you came to the right place. We have the perfect solution: Hang out with your dog and do these dog-friendly exercises.

So, take a break and enjoy a beautiful sunny day with your dog. And burn some extra calories while you’re at it.

Walk around the block

One of the easiest and most relaxing exercises is walking your dog around the neighborhood.

For added fun, follow your dog. Let them be and merely assist.

Let your dog take the lead and explore their surroundings. You need to walk by your dog and be ready to prevent any trouble. 

 You’ll be amazed by where you could end up!

Go jogging

If you haven’t gone for a run with your furry friend, you might find it challenging to start jogging together. Dogs can tire and may need a break before you do.

You also need to take care, so you don’t inadvertently injure your dog. Forcing a puppy under 6 months to run can cause joint damage. You also need to be cautious about running with dogs that tend to have breathing issues like Boxers, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pugs.

First, decide if you want to train your dog for short or long distance runs. Then, practice fast walking for at least 20 minutes per day for a minimum of two weeks.

Make sure your dog knows how to walk correctly by your side. Keep the leash close to your leg, and don’t let your dog pull or drag you.

Once your dog knows how to walk politely, teach them a specific word that will get your dog to stop and pay attention to you. Then you’re ready to start running!

Work your abs

Flatten your tummy with your dog’s help.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Tie your dog’s leash around a tree.
• Sit down in front of your dog.
• Tell your dog to lie down when you’re leaning back.
• Encourage your dog to jump up and come to you as you sit up.
• Reward your dog for cleverness, agility, and obedience.

Tone your arms

Try this dog-friendly exercise to tone your biceps. You can add it to your walk or do it after you finish a jog.

Follow these steps:

• Find a bench, but don’t sit on it.
• Face forward with your hands behind you on the bench.
• Then, place your dog in your lap (this will only work if they’re small to medium size). The dog’s weight adds extra resistance for you. And the extra lap time is just a bonus for your pup.

 Focus on your core

• Grab your dog’s favorite toy and go to a park or open space, then: 
• Sit down and incline your back to tighten your core.
• Place your dog’s favorite toy in your right hand and keep your dog on your right side.
• While you say the words, “come get it,” stay in a tight-core position and switch the toy from one hand to the other.
• Let your dog jump from side to side.

Climb stairs

One of the best and easiest workouts you can do is climb stairs with your dog.

If your dog is well behaved and will stick by your side, you can skip attaching the leash. Loop the leash over your neck in case you need it.

And be sure to keep a few treats in your pocket. That will provide extra incentive for your dog to stay close.

Wrapping up

Using dog-friendly exercises is a great way to connect with your dog and form an even tighter bond.

Rather than leave your dog home alone, bring them along and enjoy some fun activities together.

Just remember to bring along a water bottle, a bowl for your dog, a couple of poop bags, and plenty of treats.

Michael Gorman is a highly skilled freelance writer and editor at writix. Who also works at australianwritings and essaygeeks. He also writes blog posts for essayhave and best writing services. Feel free to contact him via Facebook or Twitter.