NEARLY seven in 10 dog owners claim their furry friend is their top incentive to get out of the house.
A poll of 1,000 canine guardians found they are more motivational than family members (42 per cent), celebrities (seven per cent), or even personal trainers (13 per cent).
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Researchers also polled 1,000 people without a dog and found they are less likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines.
They average just 180 minutes of activity per week compared to 240 minutes for dog owners.
It also emerged dog walking has positive mental, as well as physical, effects – with eight in 10 feeling less stressed, and 84 per cent feeling happier after going on a stroll with their pooch.
Canine companions also helped their owners score an average of 20 per cent higher on overall mental wellbeing indicators than those without one.
ASICS commissioned the research after naming a dog called Felix as its new ambassador – who will act as the brand’s key ‘spokesperson’ to champion his love of walks, runs, and even zoomies.
Gary Raucher from the sports brand said: “No one motivates us to move for body and mind more than our canine friends.
“Every day around the world, dogs motivate us to lace up, get out and move.
“Our mission is to encourage as many people as possible to feel the uplifting power of movement.
“We are delighted to have signed Felix as our official Mind’s Best Friend and share dogs’ infectious love for movement with the world and motivate us all to get out and move for our minds.”
The survey also revealed just how powerful dogs are when it comes to motivation – with 89 per cent of owners admitting their dog makes them move more.
With 65 per cent claiming their four-legged friend is the main reason they get out for walks, jogs or runs in the first place.
Half of owners can’t resist when their dog stands ready by the door, and 42 per cent cave in the moment the lead gets fetched.
While 38 per cent even admit it’s not them walking the dog – it’s the dog taking them.
The social impact of owning a dog is clear too – with 72 per cent saying they’re more likely to chat to others during a walk.
And 78 per cent of those polled, via OnePoll, believe this lifts their mood.
Hayley Jarvis, head of physical activity at Mind, added: “We have seen how regular physical activity can help support better mental health.
“However, finding the motivation to move can sometimes be challenging when you’re struggling with your mental health.
“Who better to help motivate people to move than our canine friends?
“Our belief in the power of physical activity and celebrating our doggy pals aligns perfectly with ASICS’ commitment.
“We’re proud to support this campaign and look forward to inspiring people to stay active and move for their mental wellbeing.”
Should I get a professional dog trainer and how much does it cost?
IF you’re wondering whether to get a professional dog trainer, here’s all you need to know…
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Dog Trainer:
Expertise: Professional trainers have specialised knowledge and experience in handling various breeds and behavioural issues.
Personalised Training Plans: Trainers can tailor their approach to meet the specific needs and temperament of your dog.
Efficiency: A professional can often achieve results more quickly than an inexperienced owner might.
Behavioural Improvement: Addressing issues such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking can lead to a more harmonious household.
Socialisation: Trainers can help your dog learn to interact well with other dogs and people.
Cost of Professional Dog Training:
Private Sessions: Typically range from £30 to £100 per hour, depending on the trainer’s experience and location.
Group Classes: Usually cost between £10 and £30 per session, often running as a course over several weeks.
Board and Train Programmes: These intensive programmes, where your dog stays with the trainer, can cost anywhere from £500 to £1,500 per week.
Online Courses: More budget-friendly options, ranging from £50 to £200 for a complete course, though less personalised.
When considering a professional dog trainer, weigh the benefits against the costs to determine what works best for you and your furry friend.
