Of course, it doesn’t seem that surprising that people who have a pet dog walk more than those who are without a loyal pooch, but what the research did reveal specifically is the statistics on the levels of exercise.

The study found that 34% of dog owners are more likely to walk 150 minutes a week than non-dog owners, and almost half of dog walkers exercised for 30 minutes a day for at least five days a week. Among people without dogs, only a third exercised as regularly.

When medics studied these figures they found that dog owners are far more likely to achieve their basic daily exercise targets for good health.

Added to this, the research showed that overall levels of moderate and vigorous exercise were greater among dog owners and some 69% were more likely to get at least some leisure-time physical activity.

Walking is great for your health

Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to take exercise. Walking – especially the brisker variety – is a great form of cardiovascular exercise, helping to keep your heart healthy, burn calories and tone muscles.

Walking is also an effective way to combat depression and the traditional winter blues.

If you’re a dog walker you’ll also know that the activity can be very sociable. You might never get to find out the dog owner’s name when you meet people in the park or on the hills, but you’ll always learn the dog’s name while chatting.

Where to go walking with your dog

We’re not saying that you should immediately rush out and buy a dog, because looking after a pet can be time-consuming and costly but if you do own a dog, or you have the chance to walk a friend’s dog, you’ll find a wealth of places to exercise yourself and your mutt.

Almost every village, town and city in the UK has a host of local walking routes. If you’re stuck for ideas or you want to try a new walk, see walking route websites such as:

* Walk Highlands 

* Walking Britain 

* Walks Around Britain 

* Ramblers 

The basic equipment for dog walking

One reason why walking is such a great activity is that you need only a few items of kit, especially during the summer, such as walking boots and a walking jacket.

Walking on local trails and on lower-level country routes requires a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Walking further afield or on more rugged terrain calls for hiking boots.

In the UK it’s advisable to also own a waterproof jacket for those days when the sun is a little shy. Don’t worry about buying a highly technical jacket for your daily dog walks. So long as it fits well and it’s waterproof you’ll find even the cheapest of jackets will do a good job during your daily outings.

Paws for thought: Other activities to do with your dog

Dogs are a great avenue to other forms of exercise and activities. You’ll find dog shows include events such as agility contests. And have you heard about CaniX events?

Dog agility: This is essentially show jumping for dogs. It’s rarely taken too seriously and you’ll find such contests at dog shows and festivals. You might even find a dog agility class in your local area. This type of activity is perfect for both children and adults – and their clever pooch.

CaniX: This is a growing trend and involves cross-country running with your pet. While the owner holds a lead (special harnesses are also available), dog and human race across the country taking part in events from 2km to marathon distance. See CaniX