The American Heart Association is aligning its public health message with the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show's 150th anniversary, urging Americans to achieve 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly as heart disease rates are projected to rise. With only 25.3% of U.S. adults meeting national physical activity guidelines according to recent Association statistics, the timing coincides with both the historic dog show and the start of American Heart Month.
Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, stated that the Westminster anniversary serves as a reminder to aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week to support heart and brain health. Research supports the connection between pets and healthier lifestyles, with studies indicating dog owners are more likely to meet daily activity recommendations and experience benefits like lower stress levels, improved mood, and stronger emotional resilience.
Glenn N. Levine, M.D., FAHA, a volunteer medical expert for the Association and lead author of its scientific statement on pet ownership and cardiovascular risk, noted that having a pet has been shown to decrease stress, boost happiness, and encourage heart-healthy habits like regular physical activity. The Association's initiative highlights how dogs naturally promote movement through daily walks and play, which helps build consistent routines.
Donald Sturz, Ph.D., president of The Westminster Kennel Club, expressed pride in supporting the Association's efforts to show how canine companions inspire healthy habits and hearts. The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show takes place January 31 and February 2–3, 2026, in New York City. For the full viewing schedule, visit https://westminsterkennelclub.org/viewing-schedule.
The Association encourages everyone to aim for small amounts of movement daily, accumulating to 150 minutes weekly, emphasizing that even short walks count and that pets can help though they are not required. For more guidance on adding physical activity, visit https://heart.org/pets to sign up for tips and inspiration. Additional resources on physical activity are available through the Association's information at https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults.
While pets can support healthier routines, the Association advises that decisions about bringing an animal home should be based on a long-term commitment to the pet's care. This public health campaign leverages a major cultural event to address a growing cardiovascular crisis, positioning pet ownership as a potential catalyst for improved national fitness levels and reduced healthcare burdens.
