Chopper's 5 Easy Tips for Getting Fit for Summer

By Chopper May 11th 2012

My favorite time of year is almost here, guys. You know what that means. Humans aren't the only ones who need to worry about getting their beach bodies ready for the dog days of summer. After all, we're the ones who have to strut around the sand in our birthday suits. You know what they say: dog beach is always nude beach.

Let's face it: we're all still burning off the pumpkin spiced treats from Thanksgiving. However, I will say I'm pretty confident about my canine composition. Every time you see me on the homepage, I know you probably sit and wonder, "How does he stay so fit?" Today's your lucky day, dogs. I'm sharing my five easy-to-follow tips for staying in shape in the summertime.

1. Load Up on Veggies and Protein

I love chicken bits and a juicy bone every once in awhile, but for the most part, I like to keep a well-balanced diet filled with vegetables. Unlike our cat friends, we dogs are omnivores and can survive on just veggies. My vet friend Ernie Ward once advised me to eat non-meat protein sources like quinoa, rice, lentils and garbanzo beans. Ever since I've been focusing on a square meal, my digestive tract has been so much smoother and I feel way better about myself.

2. Keep a Regular Walking Schedule

Approximately 51 percent of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight according to the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention. We've got to do something about this, four-legged friends. All you have to do is walk! Exercise doesn't have to be a drag; it can be super fun for both you and your owner. Ask your human to wake up extra early to squeeze in an extra walk each day. The most important thing is to maintain a regular exercise schedule. I promise, you won't regret it!

3. Stay Social

Make it a point to hang out more with your friends by doing something active with them every week. Instead of lounging around and watching "The Voice," grab a frisbee and head to the dog park or take a trip to the pool. Staying fit is always better and more fun with a furry friend, am I right?

4. Watch What You Treat

Ah, treats. Of all the tips, I'd have to say this is the most difficult for me to follow. I love scraps. A piece of cheese, a cookie crumb, a meat morsel: you name it. It doesn't matter how full I am; I'm always up for a nibble. On occasion, it's okay to nom on these scrumptious snacks, but its really important to remember how the calories can add up. Ask your owner to swap out those high-calorie treats for something that has more nutritional value, like carrots, apples and broccoli bits. This may not sound as yummy, but your body will thank you for it.

5. Become BFFs with Your Vet

If you're not homies with your vet yet, schedule an appointment ASAP and get to know him or her better. Your vet can help determine how healthy you are, what your ideal weight is and how much exercise you should get. You can also ask them what kind of diet is best for you. It's important to consult your vet before you make any drastic changes in your diet or exercise!