Having a dog can be like having a personal trainer.

Well—one who can’t talk or show you how to do a reverse dumbbell fly on a stability ball. But they are motivating!

According to a 2008 study published in the American Journal of Public Health, dog owners—only 23 percent of whom take their canines for a stroll at least five times each week—are 57 to 77 percent more likely to get enough exercise. Another 2008 study, published in Preventative Medicine, found dog owners who take time to walk with their dogs may average 150 additional minutes of exercise every week.

One-hundred-and-fifty minutes of exercise a week—or 21 minutes a day—can have a huge impact on your fitness level. Dog owners who spend this time walking at a brisk pace will burn 14 300 extra calories in a year. That’s four pounds—just from walking the dog. Owners who run with their pets—based on the rate of calories burned during strenuous exercise—will burn an extra 52 000 calories each year. That’s nearly 15 pounds.

Getting your kids to walk or jog with the family dog is also a great way to encourage fitness in children. Especially for parents whose children would rather play video games than a game of soccer, regular dog walking can play a role in preventing a sedentary lifestyle. It can also imbue kids with a sense of responsibility.

Just as it’s a good idea for people to consult their doctor prior to beginning a new exercise routine, dog owners should consult their veterinarians before starting canines on an exercise plan. Some breeds are not suitable for strenuous exercise—think short-nosed bulldogs or pugs—as they can have trouble breathing.

If you are already in great shape, don’t assume your dog is. Gradually increase your dog’s endurance. Dogs have a tendency to keep up with their owners, even to the point of overexertion. Try to avoid exercising midday, as dogs can both get heatstroke and burn their paws on hot pavement. Never bike or rollerblade with your dog on a leash—both you and your dog can easily be injured in a fall or misstep.

Exercising with your pet is a fun alternative to the treadmill. It’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine—especially if you live in an apartment and don’t have a backyard—and improves the fitness and health of you and your dog,

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.

You can also find Karp on Facebook.com/KarpFitness and Twitter @KarpFitness