The unusual walk that a dog owner took her pet on has delighted viewers on social media.

The woman was spotted walking her canine on a treadmill at a U.S. gym by Jocelynn, known online as @jocelynnlilyy. Jocelynn, stunned by the rare sight of a dog using the exercise machine, shared the moment to TikTok six days ago where it has since been viewed more than 3.2 million times.

An overlaid text on the video read: "When you think you're going on a walk to get sunshine and smell grass but your owner brings you here."

While most viewers online have chosen to look at the funny side, not everyone is convinced that a gym is the best place for a dog to get its daily exercise.

"Walking your dog on a treadmill at the gym can be beneficial under the right circumstances, but there are several important considerations to remember to ensure your dog's safety and wellbeing," Mary Helen Horn, president of the pet nutrition brand ZIWI, told Newsweek.

The dog, which is of medium size with a short caramel-shaded coat, was walking in step with its owner while safely strapped into a harness and on a leash. The pet appeared happy and content, maintaining a steady pace on the exercise machine despite the unusual surroundings.

"I guess it's better than nothing," Jocelynn added, after which a number of viewers shared similar lighthearted comments.

"Honestly perfect for dogs when the concrete is on fire. Their little paws," one user, @j.ivonne_, said.

Another, @jusiajusiaa, added: "The doggo is just happy to be involved I think."

Many users praised the dog's owner for her creativity and resourcefulness in ensuring her pet got some exercise. Others have challenged why the decision to walk a dog on a treadmill would even be necessary.

"Just buy some dog shoes if it's hot outside," one user, @diegogogogo10, wrote.

Another, @unnsegrell, added: "Why not take a walk instead?"

Despite the backlash, the American Kennel Club (AKC) says that walking a dog on a treadmill may not be such a bad thing. Especially when the dog or the owner needs to be indoors for a long period of time.

The pet registry writes that a treadmill can double up as a great way to keep pets exercised when the weather turns "nasty," and adds that canines can be trained to behave well on the machines.

Still, Horn is not fully convinced and recommends that owners think twice before doing the same unless their pet is well-trained before stepping onto the treadmill.

"The gym environment can be unpredictable and potentially hazardous for pets," Horn said. "Even if they are well-behaved, it can be dangerous. If possible, opt for a home treadmill or a dog-specific treadmill to ensure your dog's safety and wellbeing."

"Once that is in place, be sure to gradually introduce your dog to the treadmill by starting them off on it while it is turned off, and supervise your dog whenever they are on it."

The pet expert also suggests that owners use a harness rather than a collar, as demonstrated in the TikTok post, to keep their dogs on the machine without placing too much pressure around their necks. They should also ensure that the treadmill surface is never too hard or hot for their paws.

She added: "But if you will be going to a gym aware of the environment's potential hazards. Loud noises and distractions can stress your dog, so a quieter time at the gym might be better."

The biggest dangers at the gym are the possibility that people accidentally drop weights near or on a pet, or the stress that can be caused by overcrowding, said Horn.

Newsweek reached out to @jocelynnlilyy for more information via TikTok.

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.