Help, my dog is overweight!

Studies have shown that about 50% ofdogs suffer from obesity. Being overweight carries great risks to the health of the dog. That is why it is important that you prevent obesity in your dog as much as possible. Suppose your dog is already overweight make sure he gets back to healthy weight as soon as possible.

If a dog is more than 20% heavier than its ideal body weight, then there is obesity. Dogs with a healthy weight have ribs that you can feel well but can't see. In overweight dogs, you can not feel and not see the ribs. Obesity is most common in older dogs or in dogs that have been neutered or sterilized. Obesity in puppies is also common.

Causes of obesity in dogs:

  • Metabolic disorder
  • Change in endocrine system after castration or sterilization
  • Too energy-rich food
  • Too little exercise

Consequences of obesity in dogs:

  • Skin problems
  • Joint problems
  • Reproductive problems
  • Heart/ lung problems
  • Impaired liver function
  • Less ability/ want to move
  • Increased risk of surgery/ anaesthesia risk
  • High risk of tumours
  • diabetes

Treatment of obesity

If your dog is overweight, it is recommended to go to the vet, where you can draw up a  treatment plan together. Often this plan consists of giving less or low-energy feed  in combination with movement. In this diet food there are indigestible fillers that make your dog feel full, but less energy comes out of the feed. 

Make sure your dog gets enough exercise, but don't forget to pay attention to his state of health and age. In order for fat to burn, the dog must exert itself for a long time. A daily walk of one hour is therefore also much more useful than playing for 15 minutes. Also, during play, several muscles and joints of the dog are put under extra strain. You should try to prevent this because the dog already suffers from this due to being overweight.

Furthermore, it is recommended to reduce the feed and supplement it with green beans. These provide a full feeling but are low in calories.

Measures to prevent obesity in my dog

  • Let the dog weigh regularly at the veterinarian or pet store: Now you can agree on the right food for the dog together.
  • Give your dog enough exercise: Walk your dog for at least 1 hour every day (you can spread it by walking for 20 minutes 3 times a day, for example)
  • Don't give your dog too many cookies: if you have given the dog too many cookies, take something off his food.
  • Divide the feed: give your dog at least 2 portions of food per day, this will make the dog feel full.

 

Watch it!

You should not immediately significantly reduce the amount of feed. The dog now not only receives less energy, but also fewer vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients. There may now be a shortage of certain important nutrients. Also, certain substances are consumed extra by the stress of slimming.