Owning a dog can increase positive teen activity, researchers find

By Staff Writer

Past studies have shown that some adolescents who are not physically active are at risk of developing depression and low self-esteem. As a result, many parents are searching for ways to help their teens avoid sedentary lifestyles.

A new study from researchers at the University of Virginia reveals that dog ownership can help teens become more active. The report, which will appear in the March issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, is based on a survey of 618 pairs of adolescents and their parents.

The poll asked families how many dogs lived in the home and how much time teens spent being physically active. In addition, half of the participating teens wore accelerometers - devices that measure activity - for a week. Researchers found that teens who had dogs accrued approximately 15 more minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per week.

The study's authors stated that some children are responsible for walking their dogs, while many volunteer to play with their pets.

According to the Los Angeles Times, past studies have revealed that owning a dog can make individuals more active because of daily duties that require physical effort, such as feeding it or letting it outside.

Adolescents who have lazy tendencies may benefit from boarding schools, many of which are designed to keep problem teens active and healthy.