Training

Get Fit Together: 20 Fat-Burning Exercises & Hacks For You And Your Dog!

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Young couple jogging outside with dog on leash.

Are you looking to get in shape?

I’m going to let you in on a little secret:

Your dog is the ultimate fitness tool!

Seriously.

You don’t need to buy an expensive new gym set or that book of 8 fat-burning tricks you saw on TikTok…

Whether you want to improve your overall fitness, tone your body, or just lose a few pounds, your dog is the answer.

While your dog doesn’t realize it, they are the perfect fitness partner. And they are ready to join you on your fitness journey!

Let’s take a closer look at 20 ways you can use your dog to supercharge your exercise routine.

You should speak to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine. The same goes for your dog. Speak to your veterinarian before introducing your dog to new exercises.

15 Benefits of Staying Fit for Dogs and Humans

  1. Maintains Healthy Weight. Exercise helps prevent obesity in dogs and humans.
  2. Improves Cardiovascular Health. It strengthens the heart and improves endurance for both.
  3. Enhances Joint, Muscle & Bone Health. Supports mobility, reduces the risk of injuries, and strengthens the musculoskeletal system.
  4. Boosts Mental Health. Staying fit reduces stress, anxiety, and depression while releasing feel-good endorphins.
  5. Prevents Behavioral Issues In Dogs & Promotes Positive Habits In Humans. Exercise keeps dogs mentally stimulated and humans on track with healthy routines.
  6. Increases Energy Levels. Regular activity improves stamina and alertness for us and our fur babies.
  7. Improves Sleep Quality. An active lifestyle promotes deeper, more restful sleep for dogs and humans.
  8. Reduces Risk of Chronic Illness. Helps prevent diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, osteoporosis, and other common health issues.
  9. Strengthens Your Bond. Exercising together enhances trust, companionship, and the relationship between dogs and their owners.
  10. Encourages Routine & Structure. A shared fitness schedule benefits dogs and humans by adding consistency to their lives.
  11. Fosters Social Connections. Shared activities create opportunities for humans to meet others and for dogs to socialize.
  12. Reduces Stress & Anxiety. Outdoor and physical activities provide relaxation and a sense of well-being for both. Research “forest bathing,” a popular practice that humans and dogs love.
  13. Improves Digestive Health. Movement aids digestion and prevents constipation in both dogs and humans.
  14. Increases Longevity & Quality Of Life. Staying fit leads to healthier, longer, and happier lives for both.
  15. Boosts Overall Happiness. Shared moments of joy during fitness activities create positive experiences for dogs and their owners.

Understanding Your Dog’s Exercise Needs

Not all dogs have the same exercise requirements, and tailoring activities to suit your dog’s individual needs is essential for their health and happiness.

Several factors influence how much exercise your dog requires and what type of activities are best for them.

1. Breed & Size

High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Jack Russell Terriers need daily physical and mental stimulation, including long walks, runs, and games like fetch.

Larger breeds, such as Golden Retrievers or Labradors, also benefit from significant exercise but may require lower-impact activities to protect their joints.

Smaller breeds, such as Pugs or Dachshunds, might need shorter walks or gentler play, as their smaller frames and breathing challenges (in flat-face breeds) can limit strenuous activity.

2. Age

Young dogs are full of energy but have developing bones and joints, so their exercise should be light and spread out across the day. Short bursts of play and gentle walks are ideal. Puppies should avoid high-impact activities like running until their growth plates have fully developed.

Adult dogs are at their peak physical condition and can handle more vigorous exercise. Activities like running, swimming, hiking, and agility training are perfect for this stage.

Older dogs may need lighter, low-impact exercise to prevent stiffness and keep their joints healthy. Slow walks, swimming, or gentle play sessions can help maintain mobility without overexertion.

3. Energy Level

Each dog has a unique energy level, even within the same breed.

High-energy dogs may thrive with more intense activities like running, agility courses, or long hikes. In contrast, more laid-back dogs might prefer leisurely walks or short play sessions in the garden.

4. Health Considerations

Dogs with conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia need low-impact activities such as swimming or slow, flat walks.

Gradual exercise, like shorter walks that build over time, is key to helping overweight dogs lose weight safely.

Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are prone to breathing difficulties, so avoid strenuous exercise and ensure they stay cool.

5. Climate & Environment

Dogs are more sensitive to extreme weather conditions than humans. In hot weather, walk early in the morning or late in the evening and opt for shaded routes.

Some breeds may need protective gear, such as jackets and boots, in colder months to stay warm during outdoor activities.

Consult Your Vet

Consult your vet for guidance if you’re unsure about your dog’s specific exercise needs. They can recommend a fitness plan based on your dog’s breed, age, weight, and overall health. By understanding your dog’s unique exercise needs, you can ensure they stay fit, happy, and healthy while enjoying quality time together.

Paws & Pushups: 20 Fun Exercises For You & Your Dog

Staying fit benefits dogs and their owners. The best part? You don’t need a gym or fancy equipment – many activities are free, fun, and easy to do together.

From running and hiking to playful games like fetch and agility drills, these shared workouts not only improve fitness but also bring joy and enrichment to your lives.

Below are my 20 top exercises to keep you and your dog active and connected.

1. Take Your Dog On A Walk

Young couple exercising by walking dog on neighborhood streets

Calories burned: Approx. 240 per hour

Breed suitability: All dogs

Let’s start with the most obvious one…

Take your dog for a walk.

It’s no secret that dogs love walks. The mere sight of you grabbing the leash and harness will have your pup’s tail wagging with joy.

Many dog owners use the need to walk their dogs as motivation to exercise. A daily walk will keep your dog happy and you healthy – it’s a win-win!

Whether it’s just you and your dog or your whole family walking the dog together, walking is a low-intensity exercise that almost everyone can enjoy!

Do you find walking alone a bit boring? You can talk on your phone the entire time or listen to a podcast like I do. Your dog won’t care – they will be too busy sniffing their surroundings to notice!

I highly recommend choosing a walking route that starts at your front door rather than having to drive somewhere to start your walk. This way, there are no excuses for skipping your daily doggy walk.

However, exploring other routes is also lots of fun!

Want to mix things up on your walk? Play a game called “Follow the Dog.” Instead of you choosing where to walk, let your dog lead the way – it’s like your dog is walking you instead!

Walking is the perfect exercise for your dog. Best of all, you should already have the equipment for this exercise…

Equipment needed:

2. Go For A Run

Woman exercising by jogging along footpath as yellow Labrador runs besides her

Calories burned: Approx. 640 per hour

Breed suitability: High-energy dogs

Are you looking for a higher-intensity exercise? Running with your dog is the answer.

Running is perfect for tiring hyperactive breeds like Huskies, Border Collies, and Jack Russell Terriers.

I should mention that running covers everything from a slow jog to a sprint. You should pick a pace that suits you…

When starting, the duration is more important than speed. I mean, sure, you can sprint as hard as you can. But if, after four minutes, you are too exhausted to go on, it’s not doing you much good.

As you improve in fitness, you can pick up the pace. There is no shame in starting at a brisk walk, working up to jogging, then running. Your physical fitness is a personal journey with no time limit.

Do you find it awkward to run with a leash in your hand? Consider grabbing a hands-free dog leash. This leash wraps around your waist, allowing you to swing your arms freely – it is much easier to find a good rhythm.

Keep in mind that running isn’t appropriate for all dogs. Smaller lapdogs, such as Chihuahuas or Pomeranians, tire quickly and probably won’t keep up with your pace.

Sound like your dog? Consider short-distance interval sprints. You can jog in place while your dog recovers (or do another exercise like pushups) before the next sprint.

But it’s not just tiny dogs that may have an issue running…

Breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs with brachycephalic syndrome are at risk of breathing issues. I don’t recommend running with a brachycephalic breed.

Don’t forget to look at your dog to determine if they’ve had enough. If your dog is panting excessively or starting to fall behind you, it’s time to stop.

Equipment needed:

Optional:

3. Take Your Dog On A Bike Ride

Woman exercising on bicycle while golden retriever runs alongside her on dirt path

Calories Burned: Approx. 600 per hour

Breed suitability: Most dogs

Cycling is a great exercise that allows you to travel great distances while burning off excess body fat, among other health benefits.

I am a massive fan of exercises that allow you to vary the challenge.

Feel like a slow scenic ride through a bike trail? You can do that. Want to feel the burn? Pick up the speed or choose a route with plenty of hills. The choice is yours.

What I love most about cycling is that it is low-impact. If running is too aggressive for your joints, cycling may be a better exercise option for you.

And, of course, you can bring your dog along…

You would be surprised at just how fast your dog is. Many dogs, such as German Shepherds, Dalmatians, and Greyhounds, have no difficulty keeping up with a bike.

In fact, bicycles are a great way to exercise a hyperactive dog because they allow you to travel farther than walking or running alone.

Simply start cycling, and your dog will happily keep pace with you.

Things get tricky if you are riding in an area where dogs need to be leashed. If you hold the leash in your hand or tie the strap to your handlebars, you risk running over your dog if he stops suddenly.

That’s why I recommend using a bicycle leash attachment. It’s a metal bar that attaches to the bike frame, allowing your dog to run alongside your bike instead of in front.

But what if your dog can’t keep up with your peddling? Maybe your dog has health or stamina issues…

Don’t worry – you can bring them along as a passenger!

If you have a smaller dog, they can ride up front in a basket. There are purpose-made dog baskets designed to stop your pup from leaping out!

Older, larger dogs cheer you on from behind. All you need is a bicycle trailer.

Be mindful that carrying your dog as a passenger adds extra weight. This will make it more difficult to cycle up hills. Think of it as a bonus workout – you can push through it and burn more calories!

Equipment needed:

  • Bicycle
  • Leash
  • Dog harness

Optional:

4. Trek Your Favorite Trail

Dog and woman admiring view after reaching the top of a mountain hike

Hiking is a great lower-body workout. Your butt, thighs, and calves should be burning after a nice long hike. Not to mention how good all that fresh air makes you feel!

It doesn’t matter whether you are doing a short-day trip or a multi-day trek. A hike is always more fun with a companion. And your dog is the perfect hiking buddy.

Bringing your dog allows you to share the load. If you buy a dog backpack, they can help carry food, water, and other essentials like sunscreen.

What I love most about hiking is that you can choose a trail to match your and your dog’s fitness level. There are easy flat hikes or grueling steep ascents that will test both you and your dog.

Got a small dog that can’t walk far? You can bring them along, too. There are backpack carriers that allow you to hike while carrying your little pup. Your dog’s extra weight will add to your workout!

Equipment needed:

Optional:

View our complete dog hiking gear guide with more in-depth information and tips on exploring safely with your pup.

5. Play A Game Of Fetch

Golden Doodle chasing after tennis ball that was thrown by owner while exercising

Calories Burned: Approx. 240 – 500 calories per hour, depending on the routine

Breed suitability: All dogs

Is your dog addicted to fetch? Then, you probably already spend hours a week throwing a ball for your pup.

It might surprise you that with some modification, you can turn a game of fetch into the perfect workout.

Here are two tricks you can use to turn your game of fetch into a belly-fat-busting exercise routine.

  1. Modify Your Throwing Technique. Instead of an ordinary throw, combine a lunge into the movement. As you lunge forward, throw the ball. The same can be done with abdominal crunches.
  2. Exercise While Your Dog Returns The Ball. You know the time you spend waiting for your dog to return the ball? That’s the perfect time to squeeze in a quick exercise set. Burpees, squat jumps, lunges, whatever you feel comfortable with.

The further you throw the ball, the more exercises you can fit in before your dog comes racing back.

That’s why I recommend using a ball thrower. This device allows you to launch a tennis ball up to three times further than using your arms alone.

Perhaps best of all, a ball thrower lets you pick the tennis ball off the ground without touching it. This way, you won’t get dog slobber on your hands as you work out.

Equipment needed:

6. Frisbee Race

Woman throwing frisbee about to race her dog to retrieve it for exercise

Calories Burned: Approx. 600 calories per hour

Breed suitability: All dogs

Does your dog prefer to fetch frisbees over tennis balls? Don’t worry – there is an exercise routine for you, too.

In fact, you can do the exact same exercises I mentioned in the previous section.

But what is unique about frisbees is the glide time. If thrown properly, a frisbee will slooooowly hover through the air.

And if you like to run, hover time gives you the perfect opportunity to race your dog.

Throw the frisbee in a long arc. Once thrown, sprint after it, racing your pup to the frisbee.

Now, the idea isn’t to catch the frisbee – you don’t want your dog to accidentally bite you as they leap to catch it.

Instead, you want to sprint alongside your dog without obstructing their path. Even if you have a slower dog, it will be a tight race!

Catch your breath before throwing the frisbee back and racing your dog again!

With the proper technique, you can make the frisbee slowly glide through the air – giving you a better chance of beating your dog to it.

Sound like that’s too high-intensity for you? Grab a frisbee partner for a lower-intensity workout.

Throw the frisbee back and forth to your partner. The goal here is to play a game of keep-away from your dog. Whoever lets the dog catch the frisbee loses!

Equipment needed:

7. Kick A Soccer Ball

Family of three exercising with dog by kicking around a soccer ball in park

Calories Burned: Approx. 360 – 500 calories per hour, depending on your routine

Breed suitability: All dogs

Are you more coordinated with your feet than your hands? Then these soccer-themed exercises are perfect for you.

  1. Keep Away (Solo). Put your dribbling skills to the test and attempt to run around the park, keeping the soccer ball away from the ultimate opponent – your dog.
  2. Keep Away (Group). Bring more players by getting your friends and family in on the action. Attempt to pass the ball to other people without your dog intercepting it. Keep moving to keep the ball away. You can even make a game out of it – whoever kicks the ball to the dog is out until a winner remains!
  3. Fetch. If your dog returns balls, kick the ball as far as you can. While your dog returns the ball, perform jumping jacks, burpees, jogging on the spot, or similar. You can even race your dog to the ball if you like.

Whatever exercise you choose, the goal should be to keep moving. Juggling a soccer ball in one spot will not burn as many calories.

Equipment needed:

8. Tug Of War

Woman exercising in field by playing tug-of-war with her dog

Calories Burned: Approx. 500 calories per hour

Breed suitability: Dogs that love to tug

If you are feeling strong and up for a challenge, a game of tug-of-war will get the heart pumping.

In fact, dogs can be the perfect tug-of-war partner. Our neighbor’s Pitbull gladly plays for hours at a time. He won’t give up!

Before starting, I recommend reading up on how to play a tug-of-war game with your dog. There are rules to keeping everyone safe and happy.

Playing a game of tug is as simple as grabbing an object and having your dog bite down on the other end. And just like that, it’s game on.

However, you want to choose an object with enough space between your dog’s teeth and your hands for your safety.

You see, in the heat of the moment, your dog may readjust their grip. And when they bite back down, they may accidentally get your fingers…

You don’t want whatever you are tugging on to break mid-game – you could fall and injure yourself.

Fortunately, purpose-made tug-toys and ropes are designed for your dog to pull on. These toys are necessary if you want to use tug-of-war as your preferred exercise method.

Equipment needed:

9. Dog Yoga

Woman exercising by doing yoga with her small dog

Calories Burned: Approx. 250 calories per hour

Breed suitability: All dogs

Yoga is a low-intensity exercise with many health benefits, including improved strength and flexibility.

If you love yoga, you’ll be overjoyed to know you can get your dog in on the action…

Doga (pronounced like yoga) is a series of modified yoga poses incorporating your dog. From using your pup’s weight for balance to stretches where your dog gets lots of pats, it’s a great bonding experience.

Check out this basic doga routine…

If you are new to yoga, consider joining a doga class. Your instructor will show you how to stretch safely with your dog – plus, it’s a great way to meet new people!

One of the best things about yoga is how little space you need to do it. If you can roll out an exercise mat, you can do yoga.

This makes yoga the perfect doggy exercise if you live in a small apartment or are short on space!

Equipment needed:

  • Yoga Mat

10. Doggy Dancing

German Shepherd Exercising by dancing with owner in the middle of dog park

Calories Burned: Approx. 150 – 500 calories per hour, depending on the intensity of the routine

Breed suitability: All dogs

Dancing is a great way to improve your aerobic fitness and muscle tone.

And your dog is the perfect dance partner!

Now, it’s worth mentioning that dog dancing isn’t the same as the dances you are probably used to – this isn’t ballroom dancing.

Doggy dancing is actually a series of tricks set to music.

To give you a better understanding, check out this winning dance audition from America’s Got Talent.

Of course, your routine doesn’t need to be that complicated. Start by working with the tricks your dog already knows before introducing new ones.

You’ll be surprised at just how many routines you can come up with using tricks and commands like ‘sit’ ‘return’ ‘shake’ and ‘roll over.’

It’s worth mentioning that doggy dancing isn’t the most practical exercise on this list…

To step up the intensity, you’ll likely need to teach your dog some new tricks.

However, the effort is worth it. Not only will you have a slick new exercise routine, but you are guaranteed to take first place in any family talent competition!

Equipment needed:

11. Swimming

Labrador swimming

Calories Burned: Approx. 500 -700 calories per hour

Breed suitability: Dogs that love to swim

Swimming is one of my favorite exercises. It builds endurance, muscle, and cardiovascular fitness. All the while being low-impact – water helps support your body and takes the pressure off your joints.

Many dogs can’t get enough of the water. Dogs like Poodles, Retrievers, and many Spaniels love to swim!

A slow breaststroke is excellent for beginners. Those of you who are looking for a more challenging workout can choose freestyle or butterfly!

So, how do you swim with your dog?

On a hot day, your dog will happily jump in the pool while you do laps.

However, if you want to work your dog into the routine, you can swim a lap and call your dog to come to you. This will give you a chance to catch your breath before swimming another lap.

If you live near a lake, you can have a swimming race with your dog. Simply throw a floating dog toy as far as you can. After giving your dog a head start, jump in and race your pup to the toy.

A dog life jacket is an important piece of equipment that may save your dog’s life. I recommend a dog life jacket is worn during all water exercises.

Equipment needed:

Optional Equipment:

12. Stand Up Paddleboarding

Woman exercising by paddleboarding across a lake with her black labrador sitting on paddleboard with her

Calories Burned: Approx. 300- 450 calories per hour

Breed suitability: All dogs

Have you ever tried paddleboarding? It might look simple, but let me tell you now that it’s an amazing upper-body workout.

Last summer, I went paddleboarding for the first time. I kept slipping off into the water. It took me about half an hour to figure out how to balance, which was a workout in itself!

I still remember how sore my body was after just an hour of paddling around the bay. My back, shoulder, arm, and abdominal muscles were on fire!

If you want an upper body workout, I can’t recommend paddleboarding enough.

Once you have gained your balance, you can bring your dog along for the ride.

If your dog loves the water, they may jump in occasionally. But, for the most part, your furry friend will sit comfortably on the paddleboard with you.

Bringing your dog along on a paddleboard trip is excellent for motivation. Not only will you have some company, but you can’t give up – you don’t want to leave your dog stranded in the middle of the water.

A dog life jacket is essential equipment that may save your dog’s life. I recommend that dogs wear them during all water exercises.

Equipment needed:

  • Paddleboard
  • Dog lifejacket

13. Kayaking

Jack Russel Terrier standing on the front of kayak while woman uses oars to paddle

Calories Burned: Approx. 300- 500 calories per hour

Breed suitability: All dogs

Kayaking is similar to my previous doggy exercise recommendation. Both require paddling on the water and exercise similar muscles.

The critical difference? A kayak is more versatile. Because it’s easier to stay dry and even offers some protection from the wind, kayaking is also suitable on cold days.

Kayaks also have the added benefit of having storage so you can pack a lunch (and some for your dog) for a more extended trip.

Finally, there is stability. You don’t need to balance in a kayak, and there is less chance of a kayak flipping, even in rough water.

But, most importantly, there is still room to bring your dog along for the ride.

A kayak should be your pick if you want to tackle waters with a current.

Equipment needed:

  • Kayak and oars
  • Dog lifejacket

A dog life jacket is an important piece of equipment that may save your dog’s life. I recommend that dogs wear them during all water exercises.

14. Dog Agility Training

Woman exercising by jogging along side her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for exercise as dog completes agility course

Calories Burned: Approx. 450 – 650 per hour

Breed suitability: All dogs

If you and your dog are looking for an intense workout, consider agility training.

While your dog weaves through poles, runs through tunnels, and jumps over bars, you must keep up and issue commands along the way.

For many dog owners, agility training quickly becomes more than just a workout. With local clubs and national competitions, agility training is also a great hobby.

Now, you will have to train your dog to interact with each obstacle. But that’s part of the fun and a workout in itself.

Not sure if agility training is right for you and your dog? Reach out to your local agility training club. Many clubs offer agility training classes, and some even have days to let beginners test out agility equipment.

Equipment needed:

15. Roller Skating

Woman exercising on roller skates by while being pulled along by Jack Russel Terrier on leash

Calories Burned: Approx. 440 – 700 per hour

Breed suitability: High-energy dogs

Roller skating is a fantastic body workout. Rollerskating is the exercise for you to tone your hips, thighs, and calves.

There are two ways to do this. The first is to skate and have your dog keep pace with you. Skating is like walking or running but with wheels attached to your feet.

But with just a few pieces of additional equipment, you can turn roller skating with your dog into a completely new experience…

Attaching a joring harness to your dog allows them to pull you along on skates. Your workout comes in as you push off the ground with your skates for extra momentum.

This activity, often referred to as “urban mushing,” is basically a warm-weather version of my next exercise recommendation.

Not sure where to start? Contact your local urban mushing club for more information on joining the fun.

Equipment needed:

  • Roller skates
  • Leash
  • Harness

Optional equipment:

16. Skijoring

Woman exercising in the snow skijoring with her dog

Calories Burned: Approx. 500 – 800 calories per hour

Breed suitability: At least 35 lb high-energy dogs

Skijoring (pronounce it ski-jore-ing) is basically a combination of dog sledding and skiing. And it’s one heck of a workout.

Slide on a pair of skis, attach your dog to your waist, and you can now effortlessly ski across the flat ground!

It sounds like your dog is doing all the hard work, right? You are actually using your skiing skills and pushing off with your ski poles for a boost in speed. Not only does it work your core, butt, and legs, but it’s a great cardio work out too!

Now, if you don’t already have a pair of skis, skijoring is an expensive sport to get into. However, many dog owners find the investment is worth it.

Skijoring has a lively community with many training classes, meetups, and competitive races held each year. In fact, if you live in a northern state, there is probably a skijoring club near you.

Equipment needed:

17. Treadmill

Woman exercising on treadmill with small dog walking alongside her

Calories Burned: Approx. 150 – 400 calories per hour

Breed suitability: Most dogs

I love treadmills. It’s hard to beat a brisk walk or intense run in the comfort of your own home – perfect for those days when it’s too cold to go outside.

A treadmill is a fantastic way to exercise with your dog, too!

There are two ways you can use a treadmill to exercise with your dog…

  1. Taking Turns On A Human Treadmill. You’ll need to take turns if you’re using a human treadmill. This could be going on a long walk each. However, my favorite way to share is to up the incline and speed. I’ll go hard for 10-minute intervals, then stop to catch my breath. During this time, I’ll encourage my dog to walk on the treadmill – and repeat.
  2. Using A Treadmill Each. You can buy a second treadmill or dog-specific treadmill and have your dog walk or run alongside you. The advantage of two treadmills is that you can adjust each treadmill to your preferred pace without needing to change the settings regularly.

Equipment needed:

  • Treadmill

18. Body Weight Training

Woman doing abdominal crunch exercise while holding a corgi dog for extra weight

Calories Burned: Approx. 150 – 500 calories per hour, depending on exercise and intensity

Breed suitability: All dogs

Have you ever tried doing an ab-workout only to have your dog bother you mid-routine?

The solution is to incorporate your dog into the workout. You get to exercise, and your dog gets attention. It’s a win-win.

You would be amazed at how many exercises can be modified to include your pup: lunges, crunches, jumping jacks, squats, and more.

If you have a small dog, you can use them instead of a weight!

The exact routine depends on the specific muscle groups you want to target, your dog’s weight, and your physical strength.

19. A Flirt Pole

Jack Russel Terrier being exercised as he chases his owner in a grassy field

Calories Burned: Approx. 150 – 500 calories per hour, depending on intensity

Breed suitability: All dogs

Most dogs love to chase. It’s in their nature. You can turn these instincts into a fat-burning exercise routine. I’m talking about a game of “keep-away.”

There are a few different ways you can play keep-away with your dog.

On the lower-intensity end, you barely need to move at all. All you need is a flirt pole. A flirt pole is essentially a dog-friendly fishing pole with a toy attached. I have one, and my dog loves it!

As your dog chases the toy, you raise and lower it with your arms to keep it out of reach. You can also spin and turn to keep the toy away from your dog, adding to the workout.

If you need more exercise, hold your flirt pole in your hand and run from them as fast as you can. If you have a quick dog, you’ll need to change directions, bob, and weave to keep the toy away – it’s exhausting!

Equipment needed:

20. Canicross

jogger exercising by cross country running with canicross harness and dog

Calories Burned: Approx. 700 calories per hour

Breed suitability: Dogs over 35 lbs

If you love trail running, this is the perfect exercise for you and your dog.

Canicross is essentially a mashup of cross-country running and sledding.

Your dog attaches to your body by a line and belt and pulls you along while running.

As your dog pulls, it boosts your speed. Finding your rhythm can take a little practice, but once you do, you’ll feel like a superhero – dashing across vast distances in no time.

There is a very supportive canicross community, from forums offering advice to local classes where you can improve your technique.

Think you and your pup have mastered canicross? Enter a competitive race for the ultimate challenge.

Equipment needed:

  • Canicross harness, line, and belt

Dogs & Owners That Train Together, Stay Together

As you can see, you can exercise with your dog in many different ways.

The strangest part? Exercising with your dog is addictive. I used to exercise alone, but now I have no idea how I did it without my furry friend beside me.

If you use your creativity, I’m sure you can come up with dozens of other ideas for exercising with your dog.

Now, before I leave you, I want to stress the importance of your and your dog’s safety. Improper exercise can cause more harm than good, so do your research and speak to your vet before picking an exercise to try!

Pet Insurance Is Key To Your Dog’s Health

Pet insurance is vital for ensuring your pet’s long-term health and well-being. It provides financial support for unexpected veterinary expenses, such as accidents, illnesses, or surgeries, which can otherwise be costly.

With insurance, you can access the best possible care without worrying about the expense, allowing you to make decisions based on what’s best for your dog’s health.

In addition to regular veterinary check-ups, pet insurance is invaluable for preventing and managing health issues, ensuring your furry friend stays happy and healthy for years to come.

Our pet insurance experts have found the best pet insurance to make it easier to find the best option for you and your dog. You can also use our free pet insurance quote form below to compare prices from our favorite companies.

Other Must-Have Dog Products To Care For Your Dog

Keeping your dog healthy and active requires the right products to support their well-being. High-quality dog food tailored to their size, breed, and activity level ensures they get the nutrition they need to stay energized. For mental stimulation, invest in interactive dog toys to keep their minds sharp. Grooming tools like de-shedding brushes help maintain their coat and overall hygiene, while a cozy dog bed ensures they rest and recover properly after an active day.

Do you have any other fun tips on staying fit with a dog? Let us know in the comments section below.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Emma is a dog mom to two rescue dogs, Bonkers and Chips. She lives near a dog-friendly beach and walks there daily, keeping herself and her two pups fit and healthy. Emma is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with her readers. Along with the team, she is dedicated to ensuring Canine Journal remains a trusted, go-to online dog resource.

Emma Braby

For the last 5 years, Emma has specialized in writing canine content on Canine Journal, sharing her expertise with dog lovers around the world. Her dog knowledge comes from being a dog owner, professional dog walker, time spent traveling around Europe as a dog sitter, and volunteering in her local rescue centers for the last 15 years. Emma currently has two rescue dogs and hopes to adopt as many dogs as her backyard will allow.

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