Increasing physical inactivity is a growing issue worldwide, affecting both humans and their canine companions. A recent pilot study involving 22 dog owners and their dogs explored the effects of an eight-week outdoor exercise program. Participants aimed to walk at least 2 km twice a week. The results were promising: dog owners reported a significant boost in quality of life (QoL) and self-acceptance regarding their body image, even though there were no changes in body measurements or blood pressure.
For the dogs, the study recorded a notable decrease in body condition score (BCS), indicating improved fitness levels despite no changes in their diet. Interestingly, 86% of dog owners expressed increased motivation to continue exercising with their pets, suggesting that this joint activity could lead to lasting lifestyle changes.
The findings highlight the importance of the human-animal bond in promoting physical activity and overall well-being. As more people recognize the health benefits of exercising with their dogs, future research could further explore how these shared activities enhance the lives of both species.
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