Normally we’d hate a workout partner that never sweats, always had perfect hair, and went to the bathroom mid-run. However, when it comes to our beloved pooches, the pros outweigh the pee!

Accessorizing your exercise with a pet is practically a habit among the celeb community and now we know why. Your dog is a diet’s best friend. Seriously, there’s a reason Matthew McConaughey looks so good running on the beach — and it’s not just because he’s shirtless. Dogs can motivate us in ways human beings and treadmills never could and unlike people, they will never come up with an excuse not to exercise. Rebecca Johnson, co-author of Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound, details the do’s and don’ts when working out with your pup!

Do Walk: Instead of using walks solely as doggie bathroom breaks, Rebecca recommended walking for weight loss, that is, extending walks to at least a full 30 minutes sans your cell phone. “Pay attention and engage with your dog,” Rebecca said. When you’re not texting or talking, you’ll be able to exercise and connect with your pooch more effectively.

Do Play Fetch: “Most people use fetch in a passive way,” Rebecca said. So, instead of lying on the couch and throwing the ball to your dog, she suggested chasing after it alongside your pet. This will motivate your dog to run faster and give you a chance to do some sprinting!

Do Take Stairs: Exercise with your dog using easily accessible things like stairs. Running up and down the stairs together will maximize calorie burning for both you and your dog!

Do Outdoor Activities: Most outdoor activities can be done with your dog, including swimming, running, dock diving, and even cross-country skiing! The possibilities are endless.

Do Bring Water: Water is vital for both humans and canines alike during exercise — especially in the summertime. Dogs pick up extra heat through their paws from hot sidewalks, so always remember to bring along a water bottle just for Fido!

Don’t Overestimate: It is super important to realize your pet’s limitations. Just because you want to run five miles, it doesn’t mean your 3-pound chihuahua, Taco, can keep up. Be realistic about what your dog can do and start small to build up your doggie’s endurance.

Don’t Forget About Rescues: Just because you don’t own a dog doesn’t mean you can’t work out with one. Head down to your local shelter and volunteer as a dog walker. Knowing that your walks are directly helping abandoned pups will motivate you on even your laziest days!

xx, The FabFitFun Team

Posted on June 27, 2012