Regular exercise with your pet is good for both your health and your dog's health and can be great fun. There's nothing like an exercise partner who's waiting by the door with a wagging tail to keep you motivated!
Dog owners enjoy numerous health and social benefits by walking their dog a few times a week. Benefits include improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones (built up by walking regularly), and decreased stress.
A regular walk is vitally important for your pet's health too. Obesity in pets is associated with osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, liver disease and insulin resistance.
Most dogs need to be walked at least once each day, though some dogs, particularly very active dogs, may require more. The breed of dog you have, as well as its level of fitness and age, will also determine how long and how vigorous your walk should be.
Prepare for walking your dog by:
• stretching before you start - in particular, stretch the front and back of your legs, your back and your arms
• making sure your equipment (including a dog leash and walking shoes) is suitable and will not cause injury
• protecting yourself and your dog from excessive heat and sunburn – make sure you both drink plenty of water before, during and after your walk, walk during the cooler parts of the day when the weather is hot and protect yourself from the sun with a hat, long clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Aim for 30-minute walks, five times per week.
• Avoid walking in extreme heat.
• Take fresh water for you and your dog to drink.

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