As the weather gets colder and the holidays approach, many of us are thinking of ways we can stay healthy through the fall and winter.

Dog owners have an extra advantage of getting a little extra legwork each day during walks and bathroom breaks, but let’s be honest—as the cold sets in, we work less and less on our physical health both inside and outside.

But does that physical health impact our furry friends?

Studies actually show that good health and fitness habits in dog owners can also reflect positively on the health of their four-legged friends.

Here are some reasons why your health matters when it comes to the health of your dog:

Regular Walks With Fido

Going for regular walks with your dog is great. It’s both great exercise for you and them and is a great excuse to get outside and enjoy nature.

In fact, data shows that owning a dog makes people 34% more likely to take the time to go for a walk each day.

Many dog owners adopt for this specific reason—as an excuse to get them up and moving.

However, if you’re doing the bare minimum of bathroom breaks and quick walks, neither you nor your dog will see maximum benefit.

A major key to walking your dog is having a reliable dog harness.

Remember that their health, and yours, is valuable, and even if it means bundling up a little extra in the wintertime, your body and your dog’s body will thank you down the line.

Make this activity a priority each and every day, no matter the weather.

There are also plenty of dog-friendly indoor places you can visit just to get a few extra steps in with your furry friend. It’s like having a best friend to work out with at the gym, except they’re always ready to go, never cancel on you, and won’t suggest going to the bar for a beer instead.

Prep for Playtime

It may seem like the time you spend riding the Peloton or going to yoga classes wouldn’t have much of an impact on your dog’s health, but here’s the thing—regular exercise doesn’t just help you stay slim or muscular.

It also increases your energy level, making it more likely you’ll spend that extra time playing with your dog around the house or in the yard.

This extra playtime is vital to a healthy dog and can help them shed those extra pounds, which will have a positive impact on their life expectancy and decrease health issues in the long run.

Prioritize Health

Fitness isn’t about looking a certain way, it’s about feeling better inside your own skin, and your dog deserves to feel better too.

A fit pet will have more energy and fewer health issues, and they’ll simply enjoy life more if they’re able to accomplish more—and so will you.

Studies show that owners who take the time each day to prioritize their health take more time to focus on the health of their dogs.

When you understand the difference it makes in your own body, you’ll have a better understanding of how it improved your furry friend’s well-being too.

Make healthy choices part of your daily routine.!