Obesity is not just a human epidemic; it is affecting our pets as well. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that increased food intake combined with decreased activity leads to a few extra pounds. The problem is that if left unchecked these few extra pounds multiply and before you know it obesity has set in. Somewhere near 30% of all dogs in the United States are obese. This can lead to a whole host of health problems in your dog. Dogs are just like people in that the extra weight causes undo stress on the heart, liver, joints and kidneys. Obese dogs are more prone to injury and diabetes than their peers with normal weights. So you might be wondering if your pet is on the road to obesity and if so, what you should do about it.
You should begin by completing a quick once over of your pet to see if he is overweight. He should have an obvious waistline. If there is no visible indention around his middle then he is over weight. If you run your hand along his side and can not feel his ribs easily then he is overweight. Overweight dogs typically move more slowly, tire out quickly and sleep more than usual. Next you should take him to the Vet for some blood work and a physical. Blood work can tell you if your dog needs medication for a thyroid or other medical condition. The exam will also test your pet’s overall health and determine what type of exercise would be appropriate for your porky pooch. With health problems ruled out the next steps are exercise and a caloric reduction.
To start reducing calories you have two choices. First, you could reduce total caloric intake by one third. Or second, you can continue to feed your dog the amount you currently give him; however, replace it with a lower calorie food. On one hand he may beg and pester you for food because he is receiving less and on the other hand he might not like the “diet” food and refuse to eat it. In this instance you can mix the diet food with the current food and simply reduce to total amount given by 10%. Either way you go you are reducing the amount of calories your dog consumes per day. Keep in mind that doggie treats, bones and table scraps should be counted when considering your dog’s total food intake.
If your dog whines, begs and scavenges for snacks you must remain strong and remember that you are doing what is best for your dog by helping him loose those extra pounds. You can try to play games with him to distract him or provide him with lower calorie treats. Dogs are not strict carnivores so vegetables are an acceptable food item to give them. There are many to avoid; however, a raw baby carrot makes an excellent low calorie treat for Fido. You could also try giving ice cubes as treats. Many dogs love the crunch factor in these free and zero calorie snacks. In some cases calorie reduction will be enough, but as a general rule exercise should be added for maximum health benefits.
If your dog is a couch potato a simple 30 minute daily walk around the neighborhood should be enough to get the ball rolling. After he has mastered that you can try increasing speed or distance. If he is responding well there are dozens of out door activities you can participate in with your dog. Frisbee, hiking, biking, swimming and carting are all excellent choices. If the weather is bad try tossing the tennis ball with him in the family room. If you are worried about breaking something you could roll it across the floor instead. Just the simple act of walking across the living room will add much needed activity to his routine. If you remain strong in your commitment you should begin to see results in a matter of weeks. Remember to be patient and go slow, he did not get obese overnight!
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