It depends on how regularly owners walk their dogs

A Japanese study looked at the link between dog ownership and physical activity.

The research focused on how daily dog walking can affect the activity levels of individuals. Koichiro Oka and Ai Shibata study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, examined the relationship between dog ownership and physical activity among Japanese adults. They found that dog owners do more moderate to vigorous exercise and walking compared to those who do not own a dog or have other pets. Specifically, dog owners had one and a half times higher physical activity levels, proving the hypothesis of possible health benefits of regular dog walking.

There are many benefits to walk with the dogs

Participants were asked about their dog ownership status, frequency of dog walking and general physical activity level. The study also took into account various demographic factors such as age, gender, socio-economic status and existing health conditions. They found the following results.

Increased physical activity. Dog owners who regularly walked their dogs showed higher physical activity levels than those who did not have a dog or who had a dog but did not walk it regularly. This finding is consistent with previous research that has shown that dog walking is a primary motivator for regular exercise.

Health benefits. Regular physical activity through dog walking has a number of health benefits. These include lower body mass index (BMI), reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and improved mental health. The study stressed that it was the regularity of dog walking, rather than dog ownership alone, that was crucial to these health benefits.

Social and psychological impact. In addition to physical health, dog walking also contributed to improved social interactions and a greater sense of community. Participants who frequently walked their dogs reported greater social engagement and a sense of companionship, which is essential for mental well-being, especially among older adults.

Factors affecting dog walking

The study identified several factors that influenced whether dog owners regularly walked their dogs: attachment to the dog. This attachment provided motivation and a sense of duty to ensure that their pet got adequate exercise.

Conclusions

The study provides excellent evidence that regular walks with your dog can lead to increased physical activity and a range of health benefits. This benefit may be particularly valid for older adults, who may also benefit from improved physical health and an enhanced social life. The research also points to the need for further analysis to explore the long-term health effects of dog walking.

It should also identify strategies to encourage more people to take up this activity. By including dog walking in public health recommendations, there is an opportunity to improve physical activity levels and overall health by taking advantage of the unique motivation provided by pets.