Did you know that nearly 50% of dogs can be considered fat, obese, or in
danger of becoming overweight to the point where their health and well-being
will be threatened? Canine obesity is the most common condition affecting dog
health. Overweight conditions in dogs and most other pets is primarily caused
by lack of exercise, poor diet and overfeeding.
Table scraps and other unhealthy foods can cause dogs to become overweight
and contribute to many diet related maladies comparable to humans. Many
people are unable to correctly determine if their pet is overweight and often
times it is their veterinarian that will discover this condition.
Overweight dogs will experience breathing difficulties, trouble walking, and
exhaustion from periods spent outdoors in hot weather. Other conditions such
as urinary tract infections, worms, and other digestive ailments can also
develop.
A critical evaluation of your dogs diet will be essential to the creation of a
successful weight loss program. Avoid overfeeding and giving table scraps, soft
treats, and moist canned foods. Substitute those for healthy treats and raw
vegetables. Provide the proper percentage of high fiber dry, or other healthy pet
foods. Increase their water intake and provide plenty of extra exercise.
Overweight conditions in dogs and other pets are primarily caused by over
eating and overfeeding. Taking a lesson from farmers and cattle ranchers and
feed your pets a specific amount of food each day using a measuring cup if
necessary. Feeding more than once a day but in small amounts is the ideal
system.
Just filling the bowl in the morning is not a good idea because animals tend to
eat beyond what they need and gain weight because of it. Large meals or
gorging can lead to canine diabetes and slowed metabolism as your dog reaches
middle age. Buildup of fat around the belly and organs can contribute to a
multitude of serious conditions, such as kidney failure, later in life.
Avoid any kind of “crash” weight loss methods, as they are unhealthy and
potentially dangerous for animals as well as humans. Drastic weight loss can be
a sign of a disease like canine diabetes, only a complete veterinary checkup will
reveal this condition. Be wary of excessive hunger, drinking and urination as
these are also signs of a serious condition.
Rawhide, chew bones and toys are an excellent way to increase your dogs
activity, take their mind off hunger, and clean their teeth as well. Maintain
constant feeding times and reduce the amount of food in their bowl. Be sure to
keep their water bowl full and clean especially during the hot summer months.
Vigorous activities with the family will benefit all, keeping the pounds off, raising
metabolism, and creating a general sense of well being and high energy. Social
activities, such as a good training program can be a great experience for your
pet as it allows them to adapt to new situations, keeping them alert and happy.
Ultimately, it is up to you and the rest of the family to become deeply involved
in your dog's health and fitness. Frequent exercise and activity are the keys to a
long and healthy life!
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