Humans appear to be drawn to chubby creatures, whether they are plump babies or obese pets. However, like dogs and their owner’s age, the health effects of obesity can be far from appealing. What are the dangers of a dog gaining weight? What are some of the most typical reasons for gaining weight? And when should you take your overweight pet to the vet?
How to Determine Whether Your Dog Is Obese
People have varying standards, but assessing if your dog is overweight or obese is a matter of sight and touch. If you press your dog’s sides, you should feel her ribs. The best veterinarian Stockton CA has to offer and several dog food manufacturers provide canine body-condition charts to assist you in determining whether your dog needs to reduce a few pounds.
Obesity-Related Health Issues in Dogs
Excess weight is linked to a slew of ailments and problems. These are some examples:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart and Respiratory Disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Orthopedic problems
- Skin disease
- Life expectancy decrease (up to 2.5 years)
What should you do if your dog requires a diet?
There are a few tried-and-true methods for losing weight in animals, just as there are in humans. To begin, see your veterinarian confirm that excess weight is not the result of an underlying health problem or disease. Before changing your dog’s food or calories, you should get your dog examined by a veterinarian from Fremont Veterinary Clinic and discuss the best options with them. Consider the following helpful hints after you’ve completed these steps:
Meal Recording
A meal diary is essential for any human weight-loss program. Because dogs are unable to write, you will be required to do it on their behalf. Keep track of your dog’s food intake with a measuring cup.
Create a Meal Schedule
Establish a meal schedule if you free-feed, leaving food out throughout the day. Set the food down for a set amount of time, such as 15 minutes, and collect any food that the dog does not consume.
Limit Between-Meal Snacks
Dogs consume a lot of calories in addition to their regular food. These can range from training treats to a cookie slipped over the fence by a nice neighbor. Those calories add up. Determine the source of the extras and keep track of the number of goodies given to the dog.
Select Low-Calorie Goodies
Many store-bought snacks, especially biscuits, contain a lot of calories. Chews are the same way that is why you should get more info on the food that you are purchasing for your dog. Fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, carrots, green beans, and apple slices, will satisfy some dogs just as well.
Make Sure Your Dog Gets Enough Exercise
You will witness a noteworthy improvement in your dog’s health if you take him for frequent walks. He will also burn more calories if he participates in regular playtime rather than remaining a puppy couch potato. Furthermore, keeping them active prevents them from becoming bored with their surroundings. A favorable impact on their general quality of life as well as their metabolism is the result of this.
Conclusion
Obesity negatively affects practically every physiological system. Obese dogs have higher anesthetic risks and medical costs, even if they appear normal. Obesity is simpler to prevent than treat, so keeping your dog at a healthy weight will keep them healthier, happier, and live longer.
