The New Wellness Habit You & Your Pup Should Pick Up, Based on Their Zodiac Sign

By: Lauren JoskowitzUpdated:

Aquarius Zodiac Wellness Dog
Illustrations: Tiffany Egbert

The New Wellness Habit You & Your Pup Should Pick Up, Based on Their Zodiac...

We could all use a few more wellness habits. I could. You could. Your pet could, too. How you and your pet feel—physically, mentally and emotionally—impacts everything else in life. And the truth is, a walk once or twice a day just isn’t enough. You both deserve more self-care and intentional R&R.

So, it’s time to start making time for it. And to find healthy habits that create joy and strengthen the bond you and your dog share, we’re turning to the stars. Behold, the new wellness habits you and your pup should pick up, based on your dog’s zodiac signs. And don’t say you’ll start tomorrow. Today is a perfect day.

Jump to your dog's zodiac sign:

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Aries: Get Massages

Aries Zodiac Wellness Dog
Aries pups are born between March 21 and April 19.

Independent and determined little creatures, they thrive on being the boss of the house. But even the most courageous leaders need a little R&R sometimes. So, give your furry child a massage, and book one for yourself.

Massages are beneficial for humans and dogs of all ages. They help boost circulation, relax muscle spasms and tension, help correct muscle imbalances, and, of course, promote relaxation.

How to massage your pet

  1. Find a relaxing environment for you and your pup.
  2. Place your hand flat over your pup’s skin.
  3. Using light pressure, massage the muscles in your pup's paws for two to three minutes.
  4. Move your hand upwards and massage your pup’s legs, tail and ears.

If your dog’s love language isn’t touch (it’s normal!)—especially the massage-style of touch—consider chilling out with some calm-inducing supplements, like Vibeful's Calming Melatonin Soft Chews. (Be sure to consult a veterinarian before trying any pet calming aids to ensure stress and anxiety aren’t symptoms of other underlying medical conditions.)

Taurus: Take a Nap

Taurus Zodiac Wellness Dog
Tauruses are born between April 20 and May 20.

Taurus pups like cozy time, and they're snuggly and dependable. And what’s cozier and more snuggly than taking naps together?

Naps can quickly help recharge your and your pup’s inner batteries. Dogs tend to sleep for half the day, which means plenty of opportunities to join them for a snooze sesh. While you may be tempted to sleep half the day away with them, keep your naps short. Studies show that 10 to 20 minutes is the optimal amount of nap time for humans to avoid drowsiness and, instead, feel alert and productive after you wake.

Level-up nap time with some special throw blankets and cozy dog beds. Our favorites are below:

Best Friends by Sheri Throw Shag Dog & Cat Blanket
$19.99
Frisco Eyelash Cat & Dog Bolster Bed
$24.08

Gemini: Go on a Shopping Spree

Gemini Zodiac Wellness Dog
Gemini pups are born between May 21 and June 20.

Geminis love to be on the move, are super curious and always want to play. So, do a little in-store shopping for some new toys—for pup and yourself.

There’s a scientific reason that so many people believe that shopping boosts their mood. Purchasing new things triggers the release of happy hormones (dopamine and endorphins!) in the brain.

As for Gemini pets? They’re the social butterflies of the zodiac signs, so getting them out on a leisurely walk through a pet-friendly store and mingling with other people and pets will boost their mood.

Make sure shopping is only a special occasion treat, though. You don’t need your pup becoming a shopaholic.

Cancer: Schedule a Wellness Checkup

Cancer Zodiac Wellness Dog
Cancers are born between June 22 and July 22.

Cancer pups are emotional and sensitive and love to be loved (and love others!). Help nurture your water-sign pup by scheduling a wellness check-up for them and yourself.

Typically including a complete physical examination and a discussion about daily habits and nutrition, an annual wellness check is an important to-do for both pet parents and their pets because it helps prevent illnesses and flags health problems early on.

In-between wellness visits and have questions about your pet? Get real-time expert advice through Chewy’s Connect With a Vet telehealth service. They're available daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.

Leo: Have a Pet Playdate

Leo Zodiac Wellness Dog
Leo pups are born between July 23 and August 22.

Leos enjoy being the center of attention. They rule the roost and are full of love and energy. Scheduling some playdates with your Leo pet’s pals is a great way for you both to socialize (and help your high-energy fur kid burn off all that extra energy).

Here's how to host a successful playdate:

  • Find the right match: If your pup loves to wrestle, choose to have a playdate with a pup who’s ready to rumble. Generally, playdates with pups who are similar in age and size—as well as energy level—usually go over the best.
  • Keep it neutral: Playdates are safest when hosted on neutral territory, especially when introducing pups for the first time. Find a fenced-in park where dogs can run off-leash. Community tennis courts during the off-season are great options, too. Just don’t forget poop bags!
  • Be conscious, not controlling: Pups have to interact with their environment and each other in their own time. Don’t force anything that doesn’t naturally occur. And if the dogs don’t seem to really jive? Call it quits. Watch body language, avoid distractions, and stay attuned to how both dogs are feeling throughout the playdate.

Virgo: Start a Supplement Routine

Virgo Zodiac Wellness Dog
Virgo dogs are born between August 23 and September 22.

Virgo dogs love a good routine. For many, they probably eat the same food every day at the same time and could benefit from some added nutrients. That’s where supplements come in.

Most commercially manufactured dog foods satisfy your furry child’s daily nutritional needs. But if you’re hoping to target or alleviate a specific condition—think joint health, digestive issues, skin inflammation—supplements might help. You can even find a supplement to help improve your pet’s coat, like Vibeful’s Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil.

The same goes for pet parents: Taken by about one-third of adults in the U.S., supplements can help fill any nutritional gaps in your diet. For example, fish oil, which is one of the most commonly consumed dietary supplements, can help support your heart health and reduce inflammation, among other benefits. (You can read more about the benefits of dietary supplements for adults on the National Institutes of Health website.)

Looking for recommendations for your pup? We’ve got ‘em! Here are the best dog supplements, according to vets.

To ensure supplementation is indeed a healthy habit for your dog, opt for veterinarian-recommended options that also have a quality seal (aka stamp of approval) from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC).  And absolutely check with your veterinarian before adding vitamins or supplements to your dog’s daily routine.

Libra: Do Doggy Yoga

Libra Zodiac Wellness Dog
Libra dogs are born between September 23 and October 22.

Libra dogs born between September 23 and October 22 prefer being with their pet parents more often than not. They’re also usually calm, social and always game to Zen out. That’s why doggy yoga (also commonly referred to as “doga”) is a great healthy habit for Libra dogs.

According to Florida-based doga instructor Suzi Teitelman, doggy yoga can be a “loving, peaceful and joyous” experience for both you and your pup. “A lot of people take this time to just be with their pet, which brings them happiness,” she explains. “It doubles the calm because you’re sharing this experience together.”

Ease into doga by breathing together. Start with the Sukhasana pose, or the "easy seated pose." Here's how to do it:

  1. Sit on the floor (or your yoga mat), cross-legged. Sit up straight, relax your arms, place your hands on your knees, and gaze ahead.
  2. Let your dog come to you. Have them sit or lay next to you.
  3. While slowly petting your dog, breathe in and out in a thoughtful, controlled manner, with long inhales and exhales.
  4. If your pup allows you, place one hand on your heart and the other on your dog's heart. Continue to breathe slowly. This is called Heart to Hound Mundra. It encourages an energy transfer between you and your dog.

Wrap up your doga session and crown your dog an official dogi by rewarding him with his own yoga mat plush squeaky toy or a meditating stuffed animal.

Frisco Yoga Mat Plush Squeaky Dog Toy
$6.05

Temporarily out of stock

Frisco Yoga Bear Plush Squeaky Dog Toy
$10.31

Scorpio: Try a New (Pet-Friendly) Restaurant

Scorpio Zodiac Wellness Dog
Scorpio dogs are born between October 23 and November 22.

Scorpio pups like to live on the edge and love to explore new things. Exploring a dog-friendly restaurant is a great way for Scorpio dogs—and their parents—to get out of the house, get some fresh air, socialize with other pups and fellow pet parents, and enjoy a tasty treat. Consider this the most delicious way to boost your mental health.

Before heading over to a dog-friendly restaurant near you, check the menu for dog-friendly treats. If they don’t have any, be sure to bring some along with you so Fido can take part in the dining experience, too. Another piece of advice? Go at a time when the restaurant isn’t too crowded or too rowdy. Scorpio dogs are easily frightened and overwhelmed by chaos.

Unsure what kind of treats to bring? Skip the training treats and give your pup treats that mimic restaurant food, like...

Bubba Rose Biscuit Co. Pizza Crust Dog Treats
$9.99
Rachael Ray Nutrish Burger Bites
$5.49
Annie's Pooch Pops Doggie Fries Dog Treats
$5.99

Sagittarius: Explore the Great Outdoors

Sagittarius Zodiac Wellness Dog
Sagittarius dogs are born between November 22 and December 21.

Sagittarius pups are notorious travelers and brave adventurers. That’s why hiking or going on nature walks can be a great healthy habit to add to a Sagittarius dog’s routine. Plus, this is a fun way to get some exercise for yourself.

Use online resources, like BringFido and AllTrails, to find dog-friendly trails near you. Consider the temperature, length, elevation gain, access to shade, access to water and the surface and difficulty of the trails. And to make hiking or nature walking an even more enjoyable (and safe!) habit for you and your pup, consider picking up the best dog hiking gear, according to pet parents, like you.

Oh, and don't forget to make and bring trail mix bars for you and your dog to enjoy!

Capricorn: Learn a New Skill

Capricorn Zodiac Wellness Dog
Capricorns are born between December 22 and January 19.

Capricorn pups never back down from a challenge. They shine their brightest when tackling new puzzles or learning new commands. So, make things new and novel by working together to develop some new skills, like agility. Not only will this give you and your dog some bonding time, but seeking out new, novel things is scientifically proven to recharge your internal battery and reignite passion, focus and joy.

Choose a couple days a week to spend 10 to 30 minutes agility training your pup. It serves as “awesome exercise for cardio, balance and paw-eye coordination,” says Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ, a veterinarian at Sheep Draw Veterinary Hospital in Greeley, Colorado. And because it requires a lot of intentional focus, it’s perfect for high-energy Capricorn pups.

Use these agility training tips to get started.

Aquarius: Take a Spa Day

Aquarius Zodiac Wellness Dog
Aquarius dogs are born between January 20 and February 18.

Aquarius pups live by their own rules and, at times, can get into some trouble (but let’s be real, what dogs don’t?). They thrive when trying new things and need constant stimulation. So, help your zany dog unwind with a pet and parent spa day.

A spa day can be a great way to get your Aquarius pup to slow down and engage in some much-needed, relaxing self-care. This is a bonus for pet parents, too, as we could all use a digital detox.

Here are some ideas for your mommy-and-me spa days:

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Pisces: Snuggle on the Couch

Pisces Zodiac Wellness Dog
Pisces dogs are born between February 19 and March 20.

Pisces dogs are big fans of peace and quiet. Highly sensitive and intuitive, they love to cuddle with their humans—and even cozy up under some blankets. So, make couch snuggle sessions a regular (or daily!) wellness habit.

Studies show that cuddling yields numerous benefits for both you and your pet. It releases brain chemicals that alleviate stress and anxiety, and in turn, boost feelings of happiness.

So, grab some blankets, hunker down on the couch, and put a movie or our Zen Dog Spotify playlist on. Or, if you’re strapped for time, simply wake up five minutes early each day to get in some intentional cuddling (and bonding) time with your favorite pooch.

When all else fails, remember that all dogs—no matter their zodiac sign—love one thing the most: you! (Well, maybe two things: you and food.) As long as you regularly show them that they’re an important part of your life and family, they’ll shower you with companionship and affection unconditionally. So, stop reading this article and go give your pup a hug. After all, science shows that alone can help improve happiness and health.

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By: Lauren JoskowitzUpdated:

BeWell