The Pet Doctor

Dog Overweight? What You Can Do To Help Get Your Furry Pal In Shape

If your dog is overweight, it can put a lot of stress on your dog's body. All of the added weight can also put stress on your dog's organs as well, and it can all add up to a shorter lifespan for your dog. This is the last thing you want for your furry pal, as you want them to be around for as long as possible. If your dog is overweight, it's time to start doing something about it to help save your dog's life. Read on for helpful tips to get your dog into shape and to shed a few pounds.

1. Feed Your Dog The Proper Serving Size

A serving size isn't whatever you put into the bowl, there is actually a serving size that you should be feeding to your dog. If you aren't sure how much to feed your dog, you can talk to your veterinarian and ask how much you should be giving to your dog and how many times per day to feed your dog, as it depends on the size of your dog. Smaller dogs shouldn't be eating as much as a large-breed dog. Read the bag of food you are feeding to your dog and it will also tell you how much food to feed to your dog.

2. Feed Your Dog Healthy Dog Food

Unhealthy dog food is going to be filled with fillers such as corn, potatoes, and rice. If your food has any of these listed in the first three ingredients, you should switch to a new food that has healthier ingredients. You should feed your dog food that has fewer grains and fillers and more protein. This type of food may be more expensive, but it is much better for your dog. This is something you can also talk to your veterinarian about.

3. Exercise Your Dog

In addition to dietary changes for your dog, you should also get your dog outside more to run around and to get exercise and play time. Give your dog time to run around in the yard, or take them on a walk or to a dog park to play. Get your dog outside for at least 20 minutes each day for some good exercise. Throw a ball, play fetch, play tug of war, or just take a brisk walk around the block. All of these can all be beneficial to your dog. It can also help improve brain function in your dog as well as giving them exercise to help them lose weight.

If your dog is overweight, you need to change their diet and you also need to exercise them as well. Talk to your veterinarian about other tips to help your dog lose weight to keep them healthy.

Contact a local veterinarian for more information.


Share