Dogs keeping their owners fit and dog owners keeping their dogs fit

Natural needs

Simultaneously with the trend amongst pet owners to humanise their pets, we are also becoming more aware of their natural needs. This ties in with the increasing focus on our natural surroundings and how we can benefit from being outdoors. Of course, no better way to enjoy those outdoors than with a companion dog! 

Where we (and our pets) stand

Our wealth is mirrored in our pets. Not so long ago, excessive nutrition was considered as synonymous with well-being. Although many people do now realise that too much food is detrimental to our and our pets’ health, the increasing availability of fun and attractive products that reduce physical activity are encouraging excessive idleness. The result? Owners who do not walk their dog. In fact, obesity is a serious threat to both owners and pets.  

The problem with obesity

Research is clear: obesity is a potential risk for many pathological conditions. In dogs, the musculoskeletal and cardio-vascular system can be damaged, causing diseases such as diabetes, orthopaedic and dermatological diseases, as well as neoplasia. Unfortunately, overweight and obesity remain the two diseases with the highest risk of recurrence: for both dog owners and their dogs. Why? Owners tend to consider showing their love for their dog as synonymous with indulging all the food whims of their four-legged friend.

But, the heat is on for owners to make a radical change and express their love by keeping their dog in pristine physical condition. Veterinarians and experts alike advise owners to share wellness and outdoor activities with their dog. In this way there is a double benefit: for both owners and their dog.

Fitness accessories

Items such as automatic ball throwers, smart-fit collars, climbing shoes or snow boots and mountain backpacks for our four-legged friends are readily available online and in pet accessories stores. In fact, there are numerous, fun outdoor activities that owners can practice with Fido. For instance: having a dog chase and capture a disc, or letting him try out a steeplechase where dogs’ and drivers’ agility and speed is paramount, or swimming, often done in pools specifically created for four-legged guests. 

Recent research shows that running stands out as favourite activity for the majority of people. Maybe because it can be practiced anywhere! But, whatever the reason, it offers the opportunity to spend time outdoors and it is cheap. What is more, running with your dog provides that intimate dimension and balances time dedicated to work and pet prime time. 

Dog sports competitions

Canicross or CaniX, conceived as a training for sledge dogs, are now often practiced as competitive sports. Increasingly, non-competitive races and walks are popular. During the first Pets’ Week to be held in Milan in October 2019, the first non-competitive running races designed specifically for dogs and their owners are due to take place.

Next level dog and owner fitness

But, what if simple lack of free time, bad weather and poor health are hurdles for owners to work out with their dogs? Welcome the shared gym! This concept brings the gym to the home. And the good news is: it has been uniquely designed with both man and dog in mind. Frequent use can, in fact, be an excellent way to get a dog perfectly trained to avoid distractions once outside. Moreover, it will help pet owners synchronise their pace with that of their dog. And the other way around! 

Unfortunately, as yet, such a shared gym is still in the concept stage. We can only hope that, shortly, it will be made into a real product that benefits the health of both dogs and their owners.