Try Pilates with Your Dog

If you enjoy working out, you have probably heard of pilates before. Pilates is an exercise that strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and alleviates stress. Pilates typically is a low-impact movement that focuses on working all muscles, primarily building core strength.

But did you know that one of your favorite types of exercise – pilates – could be shared with your furry companion? That’s right – dogs can participate in pilates, too. Our canines benefit from this exercise as it helps them balance and strengthen their bodies.

Learn more about how you can enjoy this activity with your four-legged friend.

Dog Pilates

Although dog pilates is similar to the form of exercise we know and love, there are some modifications that need to be made for our pooches.

Pilates for pups shifts the focus to working their muscles and joints. This change encourages healthy blood flow and strengthens their tendons and ligaments. Puppy pilates also bases the movements around improving your canine’s balance by using equipment such as balls and inflatables.

Benefits

There are several benefits to any form of exercise for your furry friend. However, pilates primarily focuses on specific movements that produce different advantages.

Benefits for puppy pilates include:

• Improves balance
• Strengthens back
• Stabilizes shoulder joints
• Strengthen shoulders
• Alleviates stress
• Strengthens legs
• Prevents injury

How to Start Puppy Pilates

Pilates does not require much other than some space and a few pieces of equipment.

You may want to check with your veterinarian before starting, as this form of exercise may not be suitable for all dogs and could result in injury if not done correctly.

Equipment

There are several options online for equipment, such as balance disks, pads, and boards to prepare your pooch for pilates. When choosing equipment, ensure that you pick pieces that will fit your fido’s size. If you feel unsafe with your dog on some of the equipment, you can choose to utilize a harness to protect them.

Exercises

Once you have some equipment, there are several exercises you can try with your furry companion:

• Place some paws on balance equipment
• Place all their feet on balance equipment
• Place some paws on equipment while raising others
• Standing on multiple balance pads

Be careful not to strain your dog and keep the pilates exercises short and sweet. Promote good behavior by rewarding your canine with treats and words of affirmation.

This type of exercise is fun for both your furry friend and you! Remember to keep the activities playful and exciting as it is essential to keep your dog healthy and happy.