It is a fact, that if you own a dog and treat it the way you should, then you will be healthier and fitter. Most certainly, dogs make your life healthier. You go for walks with him, you can engage in dog sports too. Owning a dog can also negate the need for a gym, especially if you have a larger dog that needs plenty of walks. And of course, plenty of walks for the dog, means plenty of loving for you. Dogs love to walk, to smell other things, to explore and to meet other people and dogs.

There are plenty of other ways in which dogs can make your life healthier too. For instance, when you play with him, you can be burning up plenty of calories (he will be too).

Throwing the stick, trying to catch him, taking him for a swim, all are great ways that the two of you can enjoy a healthy lifestyle together. There are plenty of dog toys that you can enjoy together that helps make both lives healthier, such as Frisbee throwing, balls, tug toys and so on.

(And if you have a cheeky Labrador like I do, and mow the lawn in flip flops like I do, you can often expect to be chasing him around the yard because he's sneaked up behind you and grabbed a flip flop and run off in great delight with it! Fantastic exercise, although it means the grass cutting remains on hold.)

Some people also like to take their dogs for jogs or runs which is great for both owner and dog. Others enjoy cycling while holding onto the lead while the dog runs or walks alongside.

Sporting dogs that have been bred for hunting purposes also provide great exercise for owner and dog alike. Although this isn't perhaps the primary objective, both owner and dog are going to be better off physically for it.

And then there are specific dog sports where the dog can compete against other dogs in various events and competitions, such as obstacle courses and races against time. There are plenty of different events the dog can partake in and each provides a different way in which the dog gains fitness.

Some people even train their dogs to dance with them, and you get the odd act on various talent shows where dog and owner interact with one another in some dance routine. You'd be surprised what activities you can do with your dog if you set your minds to it.

And even dog obedience classes can provide a great source of a workout, especially in those early training days which can be absolutely exhausting!

But at the end of the day, you do need to provide your dog with at least a minimum amount of exercise each day. It's healthy for him and it's healthy for you too. These are just a few simple ideas on how you and your dog make your life healthier, why not go out and try a few of them right now?