What to do about my dog’s overweight?
Similar to humans, overweight and obesity are increasingly becoming real issues affecting dogs. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to recognize if your dog is overweight or obese, the causes behind it, how it can impact your furry friend, and the measures you should take.
How to determine my dog’s condition
Often, pet owners are not aware or find it challenging to recognize if their pet is carrying excess weight. The simplest way to assess this is through regular veterinary check-ups, where the scale becomes the first point of reference.
However, here are some visual indicators to help you recognize it at a glance. In overweight dogs, the ribs can be felt with difficulty, the back appears wider when viewed from above, the tail has increased thickness, and the waistline is either poorly defined or absent.
This is due to the presence of a layer of fat between the skin and the dog’s bones. In the case of obese dogs, the ribs are hidden, the waistline is nonexistent, and there’s a noticeable bulging in the abdominal area due to the accumulation of large amounts of fat. Furthermore, the broadening of the back is even more pronounced than in overweight dogs, and there may be fat accumulation around the joints.
What causes dog obesity?
The primary reasons behind dogs becoming overweight or obese are often attributed to poor nutrition, where a dog consumes more calories than it needs for its daily activity. In such cases, it’s not only about providing healthy food but also ensuring it’s given in the right quantity. If dietary changes are necessary, they should be made progressively to avoid disruptions.
At ERAPETFOOD, we offer a wide range of high-quality pet foods with the necessary information to ensure your dog receives a balanced and nutritious diet. A good recommendation would be ERA Millennium Chicken and Pheasant or ERA Millennium Chicken and Pheasant for Small Breeds.
Additionally, the absence or insufficient exercise contributes to weight gain. As a dog gains more weight, it becomes less willing to engage in physical activity.
Furthermore, certain medical conditions can lead to weight gain, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and Cushing’s syndrome. There are also genetic factors at play in dogs that are prone to overweight and obesity. This includes specific dog breeds that tend to accumulate calories more easily, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and others.
What are the consequences of canine obesity?
Excess weight not only affects the appearance of your dog but also poses a severe health problem. In fact, obesity in pets can lead to the development of diseases similar to those in humans, such as diabetes and heart disorders.Additionally, excess weight can cause respiratory and joint problems. This not only reduces your dog’s quality of life but also shortens their lifespan.
How to address canine overweight and obesity
To begin addressing overweight or obesity in dogs, a visit to the veterinarian is crucial to assess the dog’s health and determine the necessary steps. Common approaches include switching to a lower-fat dog food or reducing calorie intake. Furthermore, increasing the dog’s physical activity through walks, playtime, and other activities is essential.
In some cases, toys that require dogs to work for their food can be utilized. However, if your dog has one of the aforementioned medical conditions, they may need pharmacological treatments prescribed by the veterinarian.
It’s important to note that weight loss should be gradual, as rapid weight loss can result in serious health issues.
If you want to exercise with your dog, take the following precautions:
- Consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog is in good health and suitable for exercise.
- Ensure your dog is vaccinated and dewormed.
- Choose a safe and suitable location for exercise, such as a nearby park.
- Adjust the intensity and duration of exercise to your dog’s capabilities.
- Bring water and a container so your dog can drink during exercise.
- Do not force your dog to do exercises they don’t want to do.
- Ensure your dog is adequately hydrated before, during, and after exercise.
- Do not leave your dog alone during exercise.
By following these guidelines, you can help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight, ensuring a happier and longer life for your beloved companion.
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