The American Heart Association is collaborating with the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show during its 150th anniversary to promote a critical public health message: aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. This initiative emerges as heart disease is projected to increase significantly, with only about 25.3% of U.S. adults currently meeting national physical activity guidelines. Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, stated, "For 150 years, Westminster has celebrated the special connection between people and their dogs - a bond we know can inspire healthier, more active lives." The timing aligns with the start of American Heart Month, with the iconic competition beginning in New York City on January 31, 2026.
Research substantiates the connection between pet ownership and cardiovascular health. Studies indicate dog owners are more likely to meet daily activity recommendations and can experience lower stress levels, improved mood, and stronger emotional resilience. Glenn N. Levine, M.D., FAHA, a volunteer medical expert for the American Heart Association and lead author of the Association's scientific statement on pet ownership and cardiovascular risk, explained, "Having a pet has been shown to decrease levels of stress, boost happiness and encourage heart-healthy habits like regular physical activity." The partnership underscores how pets support heart-healthy behaviors through increased movement from daily walks and play, stress relief and mood improvement from time spent with animals, enhanced social connections as dogs help people meet neighbors, and the development of healthier habits through outdoor time and structured activity.
Donald Sturz, Ph.D., president of The Westminster Kennel Club, remarked, "As we celebrate the extraordinary role dogs play in our lives upon the Westminster Dog Show's sesquicentennial, we are proud to support the American Heart Association's efforts to highlight how our canine companions inspire healthy habits and hearts." The American Heart Association encourages everyone to attempt a simple challenge: aim for a little movement each day that accumulates to 150 minutes weekly, noting that even short walks count and pets can assist but are not necessary to participate. Levine added, "Dogs have a natural way of getting us up and moving. That shared activity is good for their well-being and ours as well." For more guidance on incorporating physical activity, the Association recommends visiting https://heart.org/pets for tips and inspiration.
While pets can facilitate healthier routines, the Association stresses that decisions about adopting an animal should be grounded in long-term commitment to the pet's care. The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show occurs January 31 and February 2-3, 2026, in New York City, with the complete viewing schedule accessible at https://westminsterkennelclub.org/viewing-schedule. This collaboration highlights the broader implications of integrating physical activity into daily life, leveraging cultural events to address public health challenges and promote preventive measures against heart disease through accessible, community-oriented strategies.
