Six Legs, One set of Weights

First it was Six Legs, One Leash. Then came Six Legs, One Doga Mat. Now Freedom and I are doing push-ups together. And guess what? We already brought all the weight we needed.

Push-ups, two ways

In the photo above, you can see both sequences. I lower myself and press back up, using my own body weight. Freedom starts in a sit, lowers into a down, and comes back up to a sit. That’s her doggy push-up. Same workout partner, different moves.

If your dog already knows “sit” and “down,” try one slow round on a rug or another surface with good traction. Give your dog time to complete each move before you cue the next one. I can do my push-up at the wall or on the floor, and Free can take her turn when I’m done. Taking turns gives me a chance to watch how she moves.

What if I want to use dumbbells?

You can make almost any strength workout a shared activity by giving your dog a turn between your sets. Think about the movement you’re working on, or pick a familiar move your dog enjoys.

Say I’m doing a set of dumbbell squats. Once I’ve put the weights safely out of reach, I can ask Free for an easy sit-to-stand. I use the dumbbells for extra resistance. She uses her own body weight as she rises from her sit.

And if I’m doing bicep curls? Free can give me a low high five after I put the weights away. I offer an open palm, and she shifts her weight just long enough to lift a paw and tap my hand. A little balance practice for her, a high five for both of us.

Keep your dog’s turn short and easy. A comfortable rep or two is plenty to try it out. If your dog seems uncomfortable, stop. If they have joint pain, an injury, or are recovering from surgery, check with your vet about which movements are right for them.

Have a happy and healthy tail-wagging day,
Pam and Freedom