Corpulent Canines - Is Your Dog Too Fat?
Is your dog too fat? Does he need to go on a diet? Many owners are blissfully unaware that their dog has gained too much weight. Since we see them every day, we may not really notice that they need to shed a few pounds.
Veterinary nutritionists generally agree that 25 to 40 percent of pet dogs in the United States are overweight (defined as more than 20 percent heavier than their ideal weight). As with people, the more excess weight a dog has, the higher the health risk. Some of these risks include diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, spinal degradation and difficulty breathing.
How can you determine if your dog has put on too much weight? There are some very basic observations you can make. When standing over your dog do you see an hourglass shape? If so, then he's probably doing okay. However, if you notice his sides protruding, then its likely that your dog needs to shed some weight.
When petting your dog, run your hand along your dog's ribs. If they can be easily felt then he's probably not overweight. However, if you have to press hard to feel the ribs then your dog needs a lifestyle change.
If possible, try take your dog to your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes. The vet will be able to give you specific tips on your diet plan so that it includes the essential nutrients.
One thing is certain: no matter how much he might beg, you should stop giving him high calorie treats and table scraps.
Take your dog for daily walks and establish regular play and exercise periods. This activity will be helpful for both you and your dog.
Swapping high calorie goodies for lower calorie treats isn't hard to do. A few healthy snacks include carrots, apples, green beans, cottage cheese and broccoli. And yes, in most cases, your dog will eagerly devour them. You may also consider preparing your own healthy dog treats at home (see below).
Adult dogs, like adult humans, don't lose weight easily or quickly. When done properly, the weight loss will be gradual.
For puppies, it is essential that you be aware of your pups food intake. We all know how hard it is to resist those puppy dog eyes, but, ultimately, its one of the best things you can do for your pooch.
Experts say that puppies should be fed only dog food that is formulated specifically for puppies, four times a day for approximately three months.Then reduce feedings to three times a day for the next three months. After six months switch to twice a day and then one daily feeding when he is one year old. At that time you should switch to adult dog food, and continue to monitor his weight on a regular basis.
Dogs who are at the proper weight are happier and more energetic. Sometimes we simply fail to pay attention or don't realize how much impact that our decisions about what we feed out dogs has on their overall health and longevity.
Veterinary nutritionists generally agree that 25 to 40 percent of pet dogs in the United States are overweight (defined as more than 20 percent heavier than their ideal weight). As with people, the more excess weight a dog has, the higher the health risk. Some of these risks include diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, spinal degradation and difficulty breathing.
How can you determine if your dog has put on too much weight? There are some very basic observations you can make. When standing over your dog do you see an hourglass shape? If so, then he's probably doing okay. However, if you notice his sides protruding, then its likely that your dog needs to shed some weight.
When petting your dog, run your hand along your dog's ribs. If they can be easily felt then he's probably not overweight. However, if you have to press hard to feel the ribs then your dog needs a lifestyle change.
If possible, try take your dog to your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes. The vet will be able to give you specific tips on your diet plan so that it includes the essential nutrients.
One thing is certain: no matter how much he might beg, you should stop giving him high calorie treats and table scraps.
Take your dog for daily walks and establish regular play and exercise periods. This activity will be helpful for both you and your dog.
Swapping high calorie goodies for lower calorie treats isn't hard to do. A few healthy snacks include carrots, apples, green beans, cottage cheese and broccoli. And yes, in most cases, your dog will eagerly devour them. You may also consider preparing your own healthy dog treats at home (see below).
Adult dogs, like adult humans, don't lose weight easily or quickly. When done properly, the weight loss will be gradual.
For puppies, it is essential that you be aware of your pups food intake. We all know how hard it is to resist those puppy dog eyes, but, ultimately, its one of the best things you can do for your pooch.
Experts say that puppies should be fed only dog food that is formulated specifically for puppies, four times a day for approximately three months.Then reduce feedings to three times a day for the next three months. After six months switch to twice a day and then one daily feeding when he is one year old. At that time you should switch to adult dog food, and continue to monitor his weight on a regular basis.
Dogs who are at the proper weight are happier and more energetic. Sometimes we simply fail to pay attention or don't realize how much impact that our decisions about what we feed out dogs has on their overall health and longevity.
About the Author:
Jim Navary has been a freelance writer and researcher for over thirty years covering a wide range of topics. He has also been enamored with dogs for longer than he'd care to remember. :-) Check out his DogBurg website/blog for canine friends at http://www.dogburg.com. Once there, sign up for his newsletter for dog lovers and receive the free ebook, "Pamper Your Dog: 130 Recipes for Your Canine Friend."
