THE DOG BLOG: 5 TIPS FOR WORKING OUT WITH YOUR DOG!

By Dawn Celapino

January 19, 2009 (San Diego’s East County -- It is New Years Resolution time and although, taking rover for a walk is GREAT exercise—most people need a little more. The following are five tips that you can do with your dog to prevent boredom, burn more calories, and gain more strength.

TIP 1: Make your dogs walk a workout walk. Incorporate exercises along the way to help with your upper body and leg strength.

TIP 2: Pick up the pace--don't let Rover pull you all over! Be in control and do a power walk or add hills to burn more calories

TIP 3: Incorporate your dog in your stretching and yoga. Your dog reads your energy, so at the end of the day try to do your stretches and be calm--your dog will follow suit.

TIP 4: Be creative with your exercise, take your dog rollerblading, kayaking, hiking, surfing, etc. Break up the rut of just doing daily walks.

TIP 5: Always incorporate dog commands and games in your dogs workout--the mental stimulation will tire them and you can have fun teaching them new things.

**As always please be a responsible parent and –pick up after your dog!**

Of course if you do not have the imagination or know how to incorporate the above. Why not try a Leash Your Fitness class? They do all of the above and more to keep you and your furry friend fit! Please visit www.LEASHYOURFITNESS.com to find out more.

Dawn Celapino is a fitness trainer with www.LeashYourFitness.com. She has taught yoga, kickboxing, boot camp & sculpting classes in corporate, outdoor & residential settings.  Dawn loves to run, hike, mountain & road bike, kayak, swim, surf, & yoga.  As long as her Cairn Terrier, Jack, is with her, she is happy.