Fitness Unleashed!: A Dog and Owner's Guide to Losing Weight and Gaining Health Together

Got a canine couch potato? In just a few weeks, man's best friend can become man's best exercise buddy. Here's how!

Like their owners, more than half of American dogs are overweight. Research shows that trim pets live up to two years longer than overweight ones-making for a more healthy, vibrant life for your dog.

In a groundbreaking study, top obesity expert Dr. Robert Kushner found that exercising with your dog not only benefits your furry friend, it also gives you more confidence and motivation to exercise, leading to more weight-loss success. Dr. Kushner and prominent veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker have teamed up to present a simple, comprehensive walking program-beginning with just three 15-minute walks per week-that is as good for you as it is for your dog!

From starting out on the right foot (or paw) to gradually increasing the duration of your walks, Fitness Unleashed! is an indispensible guide to fitness and fun for you and your dog.

Marty Becker, D.V.M., is a pet columnist for Knight-Ridder Tribune News Service and coauthor of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul. He lives in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.

Robert Kushner, M.D., is a professor of medicine at Northwestern University and medical director of Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Wellness Institute and Diet.com. He has been listed in Best Doctors in America since 2001. He lives in Chicago.