New study shows that dogs really do make the best personal trainers
In a new study conducted by the University of Liverpool, researchers found that dogs make brilliant personal trainers, helping to keep their owners active.
The research revealed that UK adults who own a dog are four times more likely to get the recommended amount of weekly exercise compared to those without a pup. From daily walks to playing outside, pet owners said that their dogs kept them more active and gave them a reason to head outside every day, regardless of the weather.
After analysing 386 families all living in the same community in West Cheshire, the study found that 80% of those who owned dogs reported to doing at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. Children who lived with dogs were also getting more exercise than those without a pet.
One of the many responsibilities of being a pet owner is to make sure that your animal has a healthy and active lifestyle. While its vital to ensure your dog gets a daily walk, another great way to keep you and your pup active is by running together. Not only will you create a special bond, but it also comes with many health advantages.
If you are looking to adopt a new dog and want to find the perfect one to join you on your runs, take a look at some of the best dog breeds for running.
They include...
Staffordshire bull terriers
Huskies
Springer spaniels
Labradors
German pointer
Lurcher
Carrie Wesgrath, who headed up the study, explained to Gizmodo: "It also suggests that dog walking is an additional activity, not replacing other physical activity you could be doing of potentially higher intensity (because you feel you need to walk the dog instead), as dog owners didn’t do less activity of other types such as going to the gym or running."
The research also found:
Dogs can motivate us to be more active
This boost in dog owners exercising isn't as high in other countries
Only 27% of dog owners in the U.S. regularly walked their dogs for at least 150 minutes a week
Heading outside with your dog this spring? Take a read of 6 of the most scenic dog walking routes for inspiration.
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