As the new year begins, many of us resolve to get more active. And what better workout buddy than your dog? Regular walks or playtime benefit not only their physical health but also their mental well-being.
Whether you’re aiming to hit a specific step goal or simply looking for ways to make walks more engaging, here are some creative tips to get you and your pup moving more in 2025.
Set Goals Together
Start by determining how many steps you’d like to achieve each day. Fitness trackers can help you monitor your progress, and some even have features for tracking your dog’s activity. Build your pup’s endurance gradually if they’re not used to long walks. Just like us, they need time to adjust to new routines.
Explore New Routes
Walking the same neighborhood loop can get monotonous for both you and your dog. Mix things up by exploring new parks, trails or urban paths. A change of scenery will keep your pup engaged by offering fresh smells and new sights to enjoy. Try picking a new route every weekend to keep things exciting.
Incorporate Walking into Daily Tasks
Combine errands with exercise by walking to nearby stores or picking up coffee instead of driving. Many businesses are dog-friendly, so bring your pup along for a dual-purpose outing. If you work from home, use breaks to take quick walks around the block with your dog.
Try a Dog-Friendly Fitness Class
Dog yoga (“doga”), agility training or even walking meetups are great ways to socialize while getting extra steps. These activities are fun for both you and your pup and often involve group walks or exercises. Bonus: You’ll meet other dog lovers who share your fitness goals!
Make It a Game
Add variety to your walks by turning them into mini-adventures. Try activities like:
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Scavenger Hunts: Hide small toys or treats in your yard or along the trail for your dog to find.
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“Follow the Leader”: Let your dog take the lead and sniff their way through the walk.
These games keep walks engaging and can even lengthen your outings without feeling like extra effort.
Get Creative Indoors
When the weather isn’t cooperating, indoor activities can help keep both you and your dog active.
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Use a treadmill if your pup is trained to walk on one.
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Create an indoor obstacle course using furniture or toys.
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Play hide-and-seek or fetch in a long hallway.
Even a few laps around the house can add steps to your total.
Join a Walking Challenge
Kick off the new year with a community challenge. Many apps and local groups offer step-counting competitions, often benefiting charitable causes. Involving your dog makes it even more rewarding as you work toward a shared goal.
Plan Longer Weekend Adventures
Use weekends for extended walks or hikes that allow you to explore nature while getting in a serious step count. Bring along plenty of water and snacks for you and your pup, and enjoy some quality bonding time. Check out dog-friendly hiking apps or websites to discover trails near you.
Involve the Family
Getting everyone involved can make stepping more fun. Create a family competition to see who can log the most steps with the dog, or take turns leading walks and coming up with new routes or activities.
Reward Good Habits
Both you and your dog deserve recognition for your hard work. Treat yourself to a new pair of walking shoes and your pup to a special treat or toy. Positive reinforcement encourages consistency, making it easier to stick with your goals.
