Friday, October 19, 2012

Your Obese Dog

By Allyson Westcot


Dogs become chubby and obese in a rather similar way people do, by eating more food than their bodies require. When the quantity of energy, measured in calories, that is taken in surpasses the quantity of energy used, dogs and humans pack on weight.

If your dog appears to be large, the nicest thing you can do is visit your vet and ask for advice. Your vet can suggest food and portions that will be the correct quantity of bulk and calories to keep your pet healthy while permitting your pet to lose weight.

Odds are that your overweight dog did not gain the extra weight from eating dog food. Table scraps and treats are generally the difficulty. Feed the right quantity of food for your dog's size and avoid table scraps.

When you have dinner, keep your dog in a different room. This can keep the dog from concentrating on what you are eating, and take away the enticement to feed your dog. Much "human food" isn't healthy for dogs in more ways than just helping them put on weight. Not only will it not hurt your dog to skip table scraps, it's better for your pet's general fitness.

A major factor in weight loss and overall health is exercise. When a dog is oversized, often he does not get enough exercise to burn away all of the calories he eats. Select a dog collar or a dog harness and leash for walking your dog. An EzyDog harness comes in different sizes and styles in order that you can get a perfect fit, even though your dog is obese.

Don't exercise your dog too much, but do take him for a stroll every day. Walks in the morning and the evening can help your dog get fit. Older dogs with slower metabolisms may lose weight quickly when exercise is increased. Also, do not be surprised if the dog's appetite changes. Talk to your vet if you greatly increase your pet's exercise, because the quantity of food may need to be changed, also.




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