Dog Overweight

Many dog owners consider their dog like a member of the family, and therefore tend to use food to express their love for the dog. But the feeding mistakes often result in developing obesity in the dog.

Obesity develops slowly and insidiously, so that most dog owners are not even aware that it is coming.

It is always difficult to treat obesity, because it caused an imbalance over a long period, that’s why it is so important to encourage dog owners to prevent obesity.

Why does overweight damages dog’s health?

Being overweight makes it harder to move, changes many organ functions, significantly reduces dog's comfort level and shortens dog’s life expectancy. According to latest research you can extend your dog’s life by 15% just by keeping him fit and trim.

Our guide provides dog owners with some tips to avoid the major feeding mistakes, and keeping the dog at its ideal weight throughout its life.

• No Table Scraps

If you give your dog bits from your dinner table, that’s probably one of the reasons he (or she) is overweight. Resist the sad whimpering eyes and just ignore him when he begs. You may have to put him in another room or outside when you eat if it’s too hard to say “no”. Just remember that you’re doing it for his well-being.

• Cut out or Limit treats

It is best if you cut out all or most of dog’s treats, especially those full of sugar and carbohydrates. Use some low calorie treats in stead (such as raw carrot - a great, healthy treat!).

• Type of Food

It doesn’t have to be a weight loss formula as your dog will naturally lose weight when you stop offering fatty treats and overfeeding him. But use only premium dry food. Producers of cheaper brands use often cheap fatty fillers, so your dog can easily gain in weight on that food.

• Switch Gradually

To prevent digestive problems switch brands gradually. What’s more your dog may need to adjust to the new food. If your dog goes on a hunger strike, don’t panic. When he gets hungry enough, he will eat. Before long, he’ll acquire a taste for his healthier new food.

• Cut Back on Food

Most dogs eat more than they should be eating. Rather than just pouring out the dog food, measure it carefully. If your vet recommends it, choose a low fat dog food.
Don’t drastically cut back on dog’s meal-size. Start out slow, and gradually decrease the amount of food with15-20%. For example, if you normally feed him a cup of food twice a day, reduce it to ¾ cup twice a day. Also, continue to give him the same number of meals, just less at each one. That keeps dog’s blood sugar more regulated than if you just feed him once a day.

Remember that older dogs eat less than younger dogs as their metabolism slows down.

• Keep Food Out of Reach

If you have a dog with an extra keen sense of smell such as a beagle or bloodhound, you have to use even more caution in keeping food off tables and countertops. For dogs that spend most of their time outdoors, regularly check your yard for hidden food. Make sure garbage cans have tight lids and that your dog isn’t able to get into any food containers.

• Exercise

Just as humans, dogs need to exercise.
Walk your dog at least once a day. Even if it’s just down the street or around the block, that’s better than nothing. Gradually increase the amount of time. Make it a fun, bonding experience that your dog anticipates each day. If possible, fence in your yard so your dog is able to run freely. Play with your dog. Just do anything to get him moving (it will be good for you, too).

Getting your doggy in shape takes time, money and energy. But if you do everything possible to keep your dog fit and trim, you’ll be rewarded with a healthier dog who will live longer than expected.