Losing Weight With A Dog
When it comes to being healthy and fit there are many disciplines that help. However, few things are more fun and productive than losing weight with a dog. Exercising with pets strengthens bonds and helps the health of both the owner and the pet.
It is proven that people who have pets are more active than others. Although they do not participate in any sports discipline, the daily walk of the dog reduces sedentary lifestyle.
Losing weight with a dog includes emotional benefits. It turns out that some specialists point out that pets become motivators during exercise routines. Thus, to be in shape, it is enough to include daily exercises that increase the demand.
Benefits of losing weight with a dog
Improves physical condition
Exercising with an animal is ideal for sedentary people, and also for beginners of a sporting activity. Exercise improves circulation and the respiratory system, thereby reducing heart risks; full of energy and stimulates the body’s nervous system.
Exercise is also beneficial in animals; strengthens muscles and bones, improves heart condition and reduces risks associated with sedentary lifestyle. Another important benefit of exercise is that it combats obesity, characteristic of adult dogs.
Close the relationship
Activities that are done in conjunction with pets benefit the relationship. They strengthen the bonds and communication between the owner and his dog, a fundamental aspect in coexistence.
It goes without saying that for animals, exercise is like a game, so you will always have fun. One way to keep his interest is to reward him at the end of the routine with a favorite cookie or food.
Benefits the mood
Having pets tends to improve your mood; even when exercising it is perceived as more fun. Playing with animals stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine, which increases the feeling of happiness in the person and, in addition, reduces depressive states or feelings of loneliness.
In addition, sharing time and activities with a pet reduces stress and its effects. Above all, this is largely alleviated when we exercise.
In the case of people with degenerative or chronic diseases, animals represent a great hope that fills them with life. They become a source of primary motivation to overcome the disease.
Promote teamwork
Dogs become exercise companions for people, and psychologically it is a commitment factor to comply with the routine. In fact, there are some disciplines that directly involve the animal. For example the Doga, which is a variant of yoga with dogs, and also relay races.
Where to start
Before starting any sporting activity, it is important to know what the physical condition of the person and the animal is. A general medical check-up can determine if the person is fit for physical exercise.
In the case of the person, their cholesterol and triglyceride levels should also be evaluated, as well as their cardiac output. This is key, especially if you have not had a physical activity in the last three years of life.
If there is any interest in a specific discipline, the check is likely to be more detailed. For example, if you want to run, you have to evaluate the condition of the legs and knees. The same happens with the animal, so at the checkup the vet will be able to determine if the dog is suitable for training.
It is important to note that some breeds have a greater predisposition for exercise. For example, the German Shepherd and the Labrador are ideal for racing routines, and it is more than convenient in the retriever, whose physique tends to be overweight when they eat too much or age.
For their part, small dogs such as Beagles or Yorkshire, should perform quieter routines. In the latter case, yoga or Doga is the ideal exercise to lose weight with the dog.
First steps to lose weight with a dog
All discipline must be gradually introduced both in the person and in the animal. The best way is to extend the exercise little by little.
For example, if it is a walk, you can take two daily walks of 15 minutes. A week, this walk can be extended to 20 minutes, or include an additional 15 minutes.
If you want to speed up the pace, you can alternate walking with jogging. However, do not forget the condition of the pet when you want to increase the resistance.
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Read it in My animals The importance of walking your dog and exercising is well known. We will not only take into account our needs.
Main image source: Julia.This
