When it comes to fitness, we often think of people hitting the gym, clocking their steps, and pushing through HIIT sessions. But what about our cute pet companions? For Zane Ong, a paw-rent to his dog, Oliver, and business development specialist, that question led to Malaysia’s very first mobile dog gym, D’Gym.
Describing the routine of his furkid, Zane shares that “walks weren’t always enough, especially during rainy days or when the weather was just too hot.” Oliver’s high energy and weather disruptions prompted Zane to look for better and more consistent ways to keep his dog active.
After researching ways to help dogs build stamina, burn off energy safely, and boost their overall health, he discovered slatmill workouts, a popular form of treadmill-based exercise for dog fitness training.
The idea clicked.
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Building A Mobile Dog Gym
He roped in his childhood friend, and now co-founder, Alastair Chiang, who has a deep-rooted passion for canine behaviour and wellness, they set out to fill a gap they saw in Malaysia’s pet services space – creating a structured, accessible way for dogs to work out, just like humans.
The concept was simple yet revolutionary, a mobile gym for dogs. The name D’Gym is short for “Dog Gym,” and was intentionally chosen to be straightforward. This was also a reflection of their laser focus on helping dogs live healthier, happier lives through structured fitness.
They began with a single slatmill, training Oliver and a few friends’ dogs. But soon, the idea evolved. “We decided to get a truck and bring the gym to people. That way, we could serve clients across the Klang Valley, directly at their doorsteps,” Zane explains.
D’Gym officially launched with its mobile format, providing sessions out of a fully equipped van. Today, the team has grown to four and continues to expand its services, including homemade treats and a strength and conditioning program tailored to active and high-energy dogs.
Educating Dog Owners About Structured Workouts
Launching a mobile dog gym wasn’t without its hurdles. One of the biggest challenges? Explaining why dogs, even those who get walked daily can still benefit from structured workouts.
“People often assume that a daily walk is enough,” Zane says. “But, especially for breeds with high stamina or energy, it just doesn’t cut it. Slatmill training helps dogs build muscle, reduce anxiety, and stay mentally stimulated.” The program is also used by dogs involved in sports, helping them condition and perform better.
It took time and a lot of education, social media posts, client testimonials, and word-of-mouth to change mindsets. But once results started to show, the community began to rally behind the mission.
A Growing Dog-Care Movement
Among D’Gym’s proudest moments was launching Malaysia’s first mobile dog gym. “It was an entirely new concept, and seeing it come to life was unforgettable,” says Zane.
Early adopters became the brand’s biggest advocates.
One standout collaboration was with Tesla Malaysia, where D’Gym showcased its services during a high-profile roadshow. “It was a chance to highlight the importance of dog fitness to a wider audience,” Zane reflects.
But, the moments that stay with him most are the transformation stories, dogs that came in overweight, anxious, or with behavioural issues and have become healthier, happier, and more confident.
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A Path To Expansion
A typical D’Gym session starts with a short fitness assessment, age, breed, energy levels, weight, and overall health are factored in. First-timers are slowly introduced to the slatmill, allowing them to build confidence. As the dog’s stamina improves, sessions are adjusted to increase duration or resistance.
Beyond basic treadmill workouts, D’Gym also runs specialised strength programs for dogs in recovery or sport. “We’re not just helping them lose weight or burn energy. We’re building endurance, improving joint mobility, and supporting mental wellness,” Zane explains.
Each session is handled by trained staff in a controlled, safe environment. And because it’s mobile, it’s all delivered straight to the client’s doorstep.
D’Gym runs on a service-based model, charging based on session type and workout intensity. While Zane didn’t share exact pricing packages, he emphasises that rates are carefully set to reflect the quality of service, specialised equipment, and professional handling.
Most of their clients are working professionals with high-energy dogs or pet lovers who just want their furkids to stay fit and happy. Social media and referrals have been key to their growth. “Our customers are our biggest advocates,” Zane says. The brand also actively participates in pet events to build connections and grow its loyal community.
From a funding perspective, D’Gym started as a bootstrapped venture. Every cent earned was reinvested into the business, from buying the truck to upgrading equipment. “It was very much a passion project at first,” Zane says. “But as demand grew, so did our vision.”
D’Gym has been operating at full capacity and is now laying the groundwork for its next expansion leap. The team is working on launching a physical location, a flagship dog fitness centre that can serve more clients and host workshops, events, and community gatherings.
Other exciting plans include building a membership model, launching cani-cross running with dogs events, and possibly licensing the D’Gym concept across Malaysia and the region. “We want to redefine how Malaysians engage with their dogs, not just through play, but through purposeful fitness,” Zane says.
A Vision To Grow Canine Wellness & Fitness Across Southeast Asia
In the next 3–5 years, Zane hopes to see D’Gym become the go-to name in canine wellness and fitness, not just in Malaysia but across Southeast Asia. With a flagship location in the pipeline, plans for expansion, and a loyal base of dog owners cheering them on, that vision is quickly becoming a reality.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about fitness. It’s about building a healthier, more connected life, for both dogs and their humans.
Zane’s advice to others hoping to turn their love for animals into a business? “Lead with passion, but build with purpose.” Passion will get you started, he says, but you’ll need patience, planning, and resilience to keep going.
“Don’t underestimate the business side, operations, marketing, logistics. And always keep learning. The pet industry evolves quickly, and staying ahead means adapting fast.”
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