Help Your Overweight Dog Lose Weight

By and large, the western world is facing an obesity epidemic and not just us “Intelligent” humans.

And we know from human experience that when it comes to losing weight, there is no simple, quick and easy answer. No magic diet.

So what can you do if you have an overweight dog?

As your dog grows, one of the best gifts you can give them is excellent health.

A dog that is overweight faces numerous health risks and is unable to do all the things dogs love with the same energy, like run, explore and frolic.

I read recently that it has been estimated that 45% of all dogs in America are overweight or obese.

That’s terrible. I find it heartbreaking to see dogs whose daily life quality was held back by their weight.

So how do you provide your dog with the gift of an optimum weight?

Just like with humans, a healthy weight is more than just diet.

Here are some useful tips, that really work, for keeping your dog trim and healthy.

Why a Healthy Weight Matters

A healthy weight for your dog isn’t just about looks! Unfortunately, dog obesity can lead to numerous health conditions.

These include:

• High blood pressure
• Liver disease
• Diabetes
• Breathing difficulties
• Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
• Lowered immune system

The First Step

The best way to prevent your dog from packing on the pounds? Always feed them the correct volume of food!

Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as a blanket rule of “1/2 cup per kg” in fact, between different brands of food, energy levels, environment and age the required volume can vary greatly!

The best way to determine how much your dog needs is by following the guidelines on the packet of food.

Make sure to follow the feeding instructions and watch how their body responds to the amount.

This can be done by assessing their body score, coat condition and energy levels. To determine how to check body score I recommend you read our article ==> How Much Should I Feed My Dog

Exercise Is Important For An Overweight Dog

Just like with humans, a healthy lifestyle is about balance. Exercise, diet and mental well-being are all so important to a healthy, happy dog.

Exercise, diet and mental well-being are all so important to a healthy, happy dog.

Regular exercise is not only great for maintaining a healthy body weight, but it is also great for your dog’s mental health. A well-exercised stimulated dog is less likely to develop problem behaviours such as destruction and digging.

Take your dog out for frequent walks, park visits or even romps with other dogs.

The weather got you down? Most dogs will happily splash in wet weather (show most dogs a puddle and they will turn into a puppy again!), but if you’re not feeling keen to brave the rain, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog moving indoors!

• Set up an obstacle course – Your dog will love diving under or over boxes, tunnelling through cushions or even jumping through a hula hoop!
• Climb those stairs – This is a great work out, for both you and your dog! Find some indoor stairs and have fun running up and down.

Make sure to always follow your dog’s exercise drive. Never push your dog to continue exercising if they’re done – they know their limits.

Keeping your dog at an optimal weight is the kindest thing you can do for their health.

Remember, there are more ways to show your dog you love them than with food.

Tried your hardest but still struggling with an overweight dog? Read our article on the best dog diets for weight loss to get your dog shedding weight and feeling great.