Does your pup have 6-pack abs? Funny question, but according to a recent study working out your dog’s core can help soothe their stiff joints and avoid knee injuries.  After all your pups needs their mobility for all their favorite activities! Check out these three exercises for Fido that are easy and fun to learn, courtesy of integrative veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstein.

The Ultimate Core-Strengthening Routine: Doggie Edition

Exercise #1: Sit & Stand
1. First, use their command for “sit.” Wait 5 seconds.
2. Then give your dog their command for “up” so they stand back up on all fours.
3. Repeat this up-and-down routine a few times a day to engage your dog’s core.

Exercise #2: Backwards Walk
1. First, give your pup their command for “stay.”
2.Then, take a few slow steps back, and pause.
3. Lastly, move towards them at a quicker pace while saying, “okay, back.”
4. In this rhythm, your pup should naturally start backing up; and if they need some help, guiding them backwards with a savory reward can do the trick.

Exercise #3: Paw Touches
1. Grab something sturdy and chest-height to your pup — like a chair, or a small stool.
2. While your dog is standing encourage him/her to put front paws on the chair or stool by tapping it, pointing to it, or saying “up.”  Both of his/her hind legs should stay on the ground at all times.
3. Tell your dog to “stay,” and have him/her hold this position for 10-15 seconds.
4. Lastly, use their command for “down”… and give your pups lots of behind-the-ear scratches while they place their two lifted paws back on the floor.