5 Fun Ways You and Your Dog Can Stay Healthy Together
We believe a happy dog starts with a healthy lifestyle, and that includes you, too! Whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or looking to shake things up, there are plenty of fun, energizing activities that promote good health for both humans and their four-legged best friends. Here's our list of 5 great ways to get active, stay fit, and bond even more with your pup.
Explore Gig Harbor’s Trails & Parks Together
We’re lucky to live in such a beautiful area! Head out for a brisk walk or light jog on one of the many scenic trails in and around Gig Harbor. Favorites like Cushman Trail, Sehmel Homestead Park, and McCormick Forest offer great terrain for both you and your dog to stretch your legs. Bonus, walking together is great cardio and helps reduce stress.
Make Playtime a Workout
Fetch isn’t just for your dog. Try incorporating squats or lunges while tossing the ball, or sprinting a few feet for short-distance races. Playtime can become interval training without even realizing it!
Doggy Yoga (a.k.a. Doga)
Yep, it’s a thing, and it’s fantastic. Try a few basic yoga stretches on the mat while your pup lounges nearby. Or get creative and use poses that involve your dog. Stretching together can improve flexibility, calm the nervous system, and help you both wind down after a long day.
Healthy Snacking
Instead of munching on processed snacks, try sharing healthy alternatives (check with your vet first). Sliced carrots, blueberries, and apples can be great for your dog and nutritious for you too. Making treats together from simple ingredients can be a fun Sunday activity!
Sign Up for a Training Class or Agility Activity
Enrolling in a dog-friendly class, like basic obedience, agility, or scent work, is a great mental and physical workout for your pup and gives you structured bonding time. Many classes require walking, bending, focus, and coordination from you as well. Win-win!
Bonus Ideas
Take the stairs instead of the elevator with your dog in tow. Great for legs and lungs!
Swim together. If your pup loves water, try the shallow end of a dog-friendly beach or lake.
Volunteer together. Some local nursing homes or community centers allow visits from friendly dogs. Socialization and purpose benefit both owner and pet.
Practice daily routines like brushing, light massage, or grooming, these build trust, reduce stress, and promote circulation and mindfulness.
Your dog loves spending time with you. By integrating a few simple healthy habits, you both benefit, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Plus, consistency in activity helps reduce boredom and behavior issues in pets and supports your own wellness goals, too.
We’re here to support healthy pups and their people. Do you need a day of fun for your dog or ideas to stay engaged at home? We’re your go-to partner for raising happy pups in the South Sound!
Have your own fun way of staying active with your dog? Tag us on social @ourbestfrienddoggiedaycare and share the joy!