From furry friends to fit teens

Background Despite the known benefits of regular physical activity (PA) for a healthy lifestyle and well-being, studies suggest that the level of PA decreases dramatically during adolescence, especially in girls as the most vulnerable group. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between ownership of different active dog breeds, PA, and screen time in adolescents. Methods This cross-sectional study utilized data collected in 2013–2014 as part of the Analysis of Children’s Development in Slovenia (ACDSi) study. The sample included 2789 adolescents (1491 boys) aged 14.8 ± 2.4 years. Adolescent dog ownership, anthropometry, and physical activity (SHAPES questionnaire) were assessed. Results The results showed that family dog ownership is generally associated with increased moderate-to-vigorous PA levels (MVPA) and decreased screen time in girls, but not in boys. This study demonstrated that highly active dog breeds had a stronger association with adolescent MVPA levels and screen time than low and moderately active dog breeds. Girls living in households with a dog had 13 more minutes (95% CI = 0.5–25.3), girls who primarily walked their dog had 21 more minutes (95% CI = 2.2–39.1), and girls who owned highly active dog breeds accumulated 34 more minutes (95% CI = 14.9–51.6) of MVPA per day compared to girls without a dog. Living in a household with a dog increased the odds of reaching the PA recommendations (at least 60 min of MVPA per day) by 39% for girls. These odds increased by 118% for girls who primarily walked the dog. Moreover, owning a moderately active or highly active dog breed increased girls’ odds by 60% and 69%, respectively. Conclusion These novel findings provide us with valuable information that could be an additional tool to improve the lifestyle of this vulnerable group of adolescent girls.