**Dogs Emerge as Leading Motivators for Physical Activity and Mental Wellbeing, Study Finds**
In a recent study shedding light on the influential role of pets, dogs have been found to significantly boost both physical activity and mental wellbeing among their owners. According to new research, nearly seven out of ten dog owners identify their canine companions as the primary force encouraging them to get up and move, outpacing motivation from family, well-known personalities, and professional trainers.
The study, commissioned by sportswear giant ASICS, highlights that the simple act of moving with a dog – whether a walk in the park or a brisk run – yields substantial benefits on psychological health. In the survey, 80 percent of respondents said that spending active time with their dog helped reduce stress, while 84 percent reported feeling generally happier afterwards.
Further analysis by Professor Brendon Stubbs, an expert in exercise and mental health from King’s College London, found a notable disparity in wellbeing between dog owners and those without pets. Using the State of Mind index—a tool designed to gauge overall mental health—he determined that dog owners generally scored 20 percent higher than non-dog owners, with averages of 61 out of 100 compared to 50. In addition, over four-fifths (81 percent) of dog owners claimed that getting active with their pets had a positive effect on their mental state.
The impact of canine companions extends beyond mental health, with the study also showing that dog owners are 35 percent more likely to meet recommended guidelines for physical activity. On average, these individuals engage in around 240 minutes of exercise each week, compared to lower averages among those without pets.
Against this backdrop, ASICS has taken an unconventional step by appointing a four-legged ambassador—Felix the Samoyed, a well-known internet dog—to promote its “Mind’s Best Friend” campaign. Felix’s playful attitude and love for walks, runs, and even energetic “zoomies” have garnered him a following, making him a fitting choice to champion the positive influence of dogs on people’s movement and mood.
The campaign aims to celebrate the role that dogs play in getting people moving and to encourage other owners to share their own stories. ASICS is calling on the public across Britain to nominate their dogs to join Felix as the next Mind’s Best Friend Ambassadors. Selected dogs will don official ambassador gear and their owners will receive ASICS shoes, participating in the creation of uplifting content that illustrates how simple daily activities with a pet can enhance mental wellbeing.
ASICS has also launched a social media initiative designed not only to spread awareness but to support mental health charities. For every post shared on social platforms with the hashtag #MindsBestFriend before 12 July 2025, funds will be donated to mental health organisations. This collaborative effort between ASICS, pet owners, and the charity sector reinforces the growing belief in the therapeutic power of both physical activity and the human-animal bond.
Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical Activity at Mind, praised the approach, observing, “While we know that regular movement supports better mental health, it can be a challenge to find motivation during difficult times. Our furry friends are often the best motivators, and this campaign brilliantly taps into that.” Jarvis added that Mind was proud to support a campaign that aligns well with the organisation’s own commitment to encouraging active lifestyles for mental wellness.
To expand the reach, local branches of Mind are hosting events aimed at bringing communities together and raising awareness around mental health. Notably, “Bark in the Park” will take place in Middlesbrough on 17 May, inviting dog owners and their families to unite for a common cause.
Speaking on behalf of ASICS, executive Gary Raucher commented, “No one inspires us to get moving for the benefit of our bodies and minds quite like our dogs do. Through this campaign, we hope to showcase just how beneficial daily movement can be, especially when inspired by our loyal four-legged friends.”
For more information on how to nominate your own pet or get involved with the Mind’s Best Friend campaign, details and application forms are available at [asics.com/mindsbestfriend](https://www.asics.com/mindsbestfriend). Through ongoing initiatives like this, both organisations look to champion the role pets can play in supporting healthy, happy lives.