How to Help Your Overweight Dog Lose Weight

Some breeds of dogs are more prone to being overweight than others. A dog can become overweight for a variety of reasons. Much like people, lack of exercise, a lack of nutritious food, overeating, and health problems are all reasons that a dog may become overweight. Also, like people, being overweight leads to a host of health concerns.

If your dog is overweight, you should first visit your vet. The dog should have a complete check-up, including blood work. A check-up will make sure there is not a health problem contributing to the weight issue. Your vet will also give you suggestions for the best way to help your dog lose weight.

• Increased risk of arthritis. Excess weight puts extra wear and tear on the joints.

• Increased weight can lead to heart and breathing conditions. Much like in humans, obesity puts a dog at risk of high blood pressure and other heart conditions.

• Skin diseases and infections are more common in overweight dogs. Extra rolls and creases in places they shouldn’t be are a breeding ground for yeast and other harmful bacteria.
• If your dog is significantly overweight, it has an impact on their quality of life. It becomes more challenging to get up and down, to chase a ball, or to jump in your lap.

• Spaying and neutering, which changes the hormonal balance of a dog, put them at an increased risk of obesity.

• Eating table scraps and human food is unhealthy for dogs. Dogs digestive systems are not meant to process many of the foods that people eat. Feeding your dog your leftover scraps is a significant risk factor for obesity.

• Lack of exercise. Studies have proven that indoor-only dogs are at an increased risk of obesity.

• Much like humans, dogs' metabolism slows down with age. Dogs over the age of five are at an increased risk of weight gain.

• Overfeeding and feeding low-quality food can also add to the risk of being overweight.

How is obesity in dogs treated? Once your vet has determined that your dog does not have a thyroid disorder or other medical cause of obesity, it is treated much like it is in humans.

• A change in diet. Your vet might suggest that you change the type of food you are feeding your dog. There are specialty dog foods designed for weight control. Measure the appropriate amount of food, and cut out all snacks such as treats and people food. Dietary changes should be introduced slowly to avoid digestive issues.

• You will need to help your dog increase their activity level. Take more frequent walks. If you have a secure outdoor area, let your pet spend more time outdoors. Take your dog to the dog part and encourage playtime with other dogs.

• Give your dog a chewable dog vitamin approved by your vet. A high-quality chewable dog vitamin will ensure that your dog is receiving the correct amount of essential vitamins and minerals to optimize metabolism.

Resist the temptation to give in to begging. Dogs are good at playing on our emotions, but remind yourself that the restrictions you have imposed are essential for your dog's life expectancy and well-being.