How Swimming Helped Rocco Stay Strong, Trim, and Full of Life

October 8 is Pet Obesity Awareness Day, and at DogStoreOnline, we’re all about helping pups live longer, healthier, tail-wagging lives.

So today, we’re not just sharing facts—we’re sharing a story.
Rocco’s story.

🐶  Meet Rocco: Our Trim, Muscular, Water-Loving Schnauzer

(photo taken in our pool Labor Day weekend 2024)

Rocco is more than our store’s unofficial mascot—he’s our founder’s beloved service dog and constant companion. Like many small breeds, Rocco’s health and energy rely heavily on staying at a healthy weight and building good muscle tone. And over the years, we’ve found one thing that’s helped him stay in amazing shape:

Swimming.

When we moved into our current home in Ohio, we gained something we’d never had before—an in-ground pool. And while most schnauzers aren’t known for loving the water, Rocco loves being with us more than anything.

With patience, encouragement, and daily dips, Rocco learned how to swim—and over the past four seasons, he’s joined us in the pool every single day of swim season.
Not only does he love it… but the benefits have been incredible.

💪 The Results Speak for Themselves

Rocco’s vet was amazed to see the difference.
Swimming has helped Rocco:

• Build strong, lean muscle mass

• Maintain a healthy weight year-round

• Stay active without joint strain

• Improve his endurance and energy

Even during the colder months, when the pool is closed, Rocco carries the fitness he built over the summer into his off-season. He runs in our fenced yard, plays inside, and zooms around the basement—powered by a solid foundation of fitness.

📉 Why Pet Obesity Matters

More than 55% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese, and that excess weight can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Diabetes

• Joint pain

• Heart problems

• Shortened lifespan

But here’s the good news: even small changes can make a big difference.

🐾 Tips to Help Keep Your Dog Fit

• Measure meals and monitor treats—every calorie counts for our smaller companions

• Find movement they enjoy—walks, fetch, swimming, hide-and-seek, or treadmill time

• Make exercise part of your daily routine (even 15 minutes a day is powerful)

• Talk to your vet before starting new exercise programs—especially for senior or special-needs pups

And remember: you know your dog best. Rocco taught us that fitness doesn’t have to mean high-impact play. It just means showing up for their health the way they always show up for us.

💌 A Final Thought from Rocco’s Family

We’ve always monitored Rocco’s food intake—honestly, probably more closely than we monitor our own! But it’s been swimming that changed everything. And what started as a bonding activity has become a lifestyle that keeps him strong, healthy, and happy.

If your pup is struggling with weight—or you just want to be more proactive—start small, stay consistent, and celebrate the wins. Because every wag, every swim, every zoomie around the basement is worth it.

🐾 From Rocco and all of us at DogStoreOnline,
Happy Pet Obesity Awareness Day.
Here’s to strong hearts, strong muscles, and the joy of doing what’s best for our best friends.