How Being A Dog Owner Can Make You Skinny

Are you debating getting a dog? Here is another `con` to add to the list, they can help you lose weight! It is true...think about those cold, rainy days when all you want to do is curl up in front of the TV with a big bowl of pasta or a bag of cookies, having a dog around will make you get outside everyday (even the dreary ones) to get some fresh air and exercise.

Indeed, dogs help their owner's stay active year-round, as they will motivate you to get out for a walk every day. If it is difficult for you to get up and out, having a dog may be the perfect solution! Of course, if you do decide to have a dog, you must take the responsibility of walking it each day to make the dog's life happy too...if you don't think you can commit-don't do it. A great way to "test" out having a dog is to volunteer at your local pet shelter, who are constantly looking for people to walk the dogs. If you "click" with one of the dogs that you walk, you may be able to adopt it too!

Having a dog to go out for a walk with or go for a run with may help motivate you to stay on track with your own weight loss program, as you will always have a companion to exercise with. No more waiting for your friend Suzie to get ready for a run, or planning running outings with your brother, you will simply have to look for the furry friend who lives with you, and who will always be happy to head outside for some exercise.

Dogs are also great for families, as children can go out in the yard and run around with the dog, or can learn responsibility by taking the dog out for walks. Walking the dog is a fun activity the entire family can do together.

Walking is one of the best things you can do to stay active, especially if you are overweight and are just starting to incorporate exercise into your lifestyle. You can start by taking a 30 minute walk at a slow pace (around 3mph) and up your time and speed when you get comfortable walking at that pace.

Already own a dog? Is it overweight? Many North Americans are overweight, and so are our pets! If you have a dog that is overweight, you can start your diet and exercise plan together, it is always helpful when you have someone else to help keep you motivated, and your dog is the perfect thing to keep you going, for your health and their's!

Again, don't get a dog if you won't be able to walk it everyday and take proper care of it, but if you are looking for a motivational friend who will be there to get you up and out of the house, and stick with you through your weight loss program, a dog may just be the best bet!

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