Dog fitness workouts are rising in popularity, not only amongst our furry friends who adore the excitement and energy of a dog-friendly gym at home, but for the many remote workers and former gym-goers who don’t fancy paying a monthly membership fee.
Dog-friendly workouts are a great way to keep both humans and hounds fit, with a fun twist to the usual walkies, and offer a unique way to strengthen your bond with your pet. For some dog fitness inspiration, we’ve partnered with health, family and food influencer Amy Lou Perry to share some stimulating exercises that you can do with your excited doggo.
If you like Amy’s workout, then you can combine your passion for fitness and four-legged friends by following her adorable cockapoo Teddy on Instagram. And if you feel like Fido has earned himself a little reward, perhaps a weekend away, then click the button below to explore our range of dog-friendly cottages where you can practice more dog fitness.
Scroll through Amy's dog-friendly exercises
Turn your lounge into a dog-friendly gym by scrolling through our graphic below which outlines a superb home workout that Fido is sure to love. Find advice for each exercise and learn how to best involve Fido – not forgetting a handful of treats for some dog fitness motivation!
Dog-friendly exercises in detail
Read on for a more detailed walkthrough of Amy's dog fitness home workout and learn why Fido is sure to enjoy each and every exercise.
Lunges
Your dog will love this activity, as they excitedly meander between your strides. Encouraging your dog to weave in and out, try to complete four sets of eight lunging reps per leg.
They’ll love the interaction, but make sure to keep a handful of doggy treats within reach as a tasty guide and special reward for being so well-behaved!
Plank
With your elbows clenched and forearms holding your body just above the floor, make 30 to 60-second bursts of this usually core-straining exercise a little more fun by alternating your holding arm and giving your dog regular high fives. They’ll love the involvement, and you’ll notice the clock ticking that little bit faster.
Squats
This is a great, hands-on activity that helps you to continue bonding with your dog, as the pair of you squat three sets of ten reps together.
If your dog isn’t too big, hold them across their stomach and chest so they’re comfortable in your arms. If they’re a bit too heavy, take hold of your dog’s paws for a little extra resistance and welcome each bending squat with affectionate kisses!
Burpees
Dynamic by design, burpees are great for getting the heart racing – but also the perfect opportunity to encourage doggy involvement.
Beginning in the press up-position, launch your legs forward and spring upwards, before dropping back into the flat starting position and repeating for three sets of six. Mimicking your movement, your dog will love jumping up with you and lying down as you drop.
Wall sits
A stationary exercise, wall sits simply involve resting your back against a flat surface, with your knees bent and thighs as parallel to the floor as possible. Ideally, you’ll be able to hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds, with your dog on your lap for a little extra weight or standing before you with their encouraging paws resting on your knees.
Push-ups
Whether you favour the standard push-up position or feel more comfortable with your knees touching the floor, this traditional exercise benefits from enjoyable doggy involvement.
Completing three sets of eight push-ups, reach out to give your dog a high five after each complete action, or let them sit on your back for a little extra resistance.
Plan a workout in our dog-friendly holiday cottages
Now you and Fido are clued up on some of the best and most enjoyable exercises for a dog-friendly home workout, why not take your new dog fitness routine on the road and keep exercising whilst enjoying a four-pawed holiday?
Turn your holiday home into a dog-friendly gym by clicking the button below to explore our collection of woof-welcoming cottages and find retreats for solo travellers, couples, extended families, and large groups of friends.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.