Dog Weight Control - How to Help Your Dog Lose Weight

Is your dog carrying around a few extra pounds? Many well meaning pet owners look the other way when their pets gain weight, failing to consider the health implications. Not only does being overweight increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes, it also puts considerable strain on the joints and can also increases the risk of hip dysplasia in larger breeds. If your animal companion is overweight, it is important to take action to reduce his risk of health problems. Here are some tips for effective dog weight control:

Rule Out Underlying Medical Problems

Most problems with canine obesity stems from overfeeding and lack of exercise, but medical problems also need to be ruled out. Such conditions as an underactive thyroid can cause your canine companion to gain weight more easily. This condition can be ruled out by a simple blood test. Schedule an appointment with your trusted veterinarian to have the obesity symptom assessed.

Reassess Your Dog's Eating Habits

Are you feeding your canine friend a balanced diet or are you overindulging him with "people food"? Improper feeding and table scraps are two of the main reasons for dog weight control problems. Select a balanced food for your pet and feed him the proper amount. The general formula for determining food quantities is 1.5 cups per twenty pounds of body weight for small breeds and 1 cup per twenty pounds for larger breeds. Avoid giving your pet leftovers or table scraps. Not only will they make weight control difficult, high fat foods increase your pet's risk of pancreatitis.

Reevaluate Your Dog's Exercise Habits

Any dog that lies around all day is going to have problems with weight control. Make time in the morning for a brisk thirty minute walk with your canine friend and an additional one in the evening if your schedule allows. Other ways to get him more active is to teach him to play ball or frisbee and play on a daily basis. Regular trips to the park or a doggie day care facility are also excellent ways to motivate him to be more active. Not only can regular exercise help with his weight control program, it may also help your pet live longer and happier.

Find Substitutes for Unhealthy Dog Treats

If your canine best friend is constantly begging for a treat and you feel compelled to give in, at least make it a healthy one. Some good ideas are slices of fresh carrot or apple in place of higher calorie cookies, or sweet treats. Be sure to obtain a list of foods that dogs should not eat before doing this. For example: chocolate, grapes, garlic, and onions can be toxic to dogs. If you choose to use commercial cookies as a treat, read the label and avoid cookies that are high in sugar and carbohydrates.

With a few changes to your dog's feeding and exercise habits, you can help to conquer his weight control problems and keep your best friend slim, active, healthy and live longer.