Mary Allen
Today, about every second dog is overweight. Unhealthy food and too little exercise lead to an increased risk of diseases and reduced quality of life. How to help your dog lose weight.
Just over half of the dogs in Sweden today suffer from obesity. Just like for master and mistress, being overweight can give dogs negative health effects and sequelae.
– Obesity can have many unpleasant consequences such as diabetes, joint problems, heart and lung problems, metabolic disorders, and problems with skin and fur. In addition, the dog’s lifespan can be significantly shortened, says Per Josefsson, veterinarian at Sveland Djurförsäkringar.
Most dog owners are well aware of the risks of being overweight. The right amount of food in combination with exercise is the best solution for getting a healthy dog.
Is Your Dog Overweight?
Obesity usually creeps in and it can be difficult to assess when your dog has crossed the limit of his normal weight. A normal-weight dog has a marked waist and neck, and easily palpable ribs. A clear sign of obesity is when you can not feel the ribs. Stroke your hand over your back to feel the ribs and see the waist from above. If you feel that you have to press with your hand to feel the ribs, the dog is probably overweight. In profile, the abdomen should be slightly raised. If you are unsure, ask your veterinarian.
6 Tips: How to Get Your Dog to Lose Weight
Reduce the daily food ration. The right amount of the right food is the key to successful weight loss for your dog. Choose a good quality feed with lower energy content. Use a measure and be consistent when measuring the feed.
Increase the exercise gradually. Exercise is important for health and when the dog is to lose weight. Energy consumption is 2-3 times higher when you exercise. Long walks or jogging are a great way to get rid of excess for the dog. Swimming is especially gentle and dog pools are available in many places.
Give sweets in moderation. It is okay to give dog candy or chews, but remember to reduce the amount of food in the corresponding amount of energy that day. Helped in the family so that not everyone gives sweets, then it becomes too much in total.
Weigh your dog regularly. If you do not know what the dog’s ideal weight is, you can start by setting the target weight at 85 percent of the current weight.
Be clear about the surroundings. Tell your circle of acquaintances what you and your dog are going through. Your dog does not need anything extra in addition to his usual food portion.
Get help from a veterinarian if your dog is very overweight. Carry out the weight loss in consultation with the veterinarian.