Easy Tips for Dog Weight Loss

by Furr Meals Owner

Obesity in dogs is a big problem. It puts dogs at risk for many health problems, including diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. Not to mention it can be very uncomfortable for the dog. The weight gain in dogs is caused by eating an excess of calories relative to the energy they expend. It’s also linked with genetics, thyroid dysfunction, and medications. Here are tips for dog weight lose :

Change your dog’s diet

Keep your dog on a stable diet. Make sure it contains a specific mix of quality carbohydrates and proteins, but allow enough variety so that your dog doesn’t become bored. Add a small amount of wet food to their meals to keep their digestive system stimulated. A healthy diet can include some soft bones as well. Feeding a high-quality dry dog food can also help. Make sure your dog is regularly exercised by walking them. Some dogs may need to be put on a leash to exercise. Buy a scale A small scale is good for measuring food. If your dog is overweight, you can start weighing the food you give them. Once a month or once a week, weigh your dog and take the dog’s weight. Work on limiting treats Limit the amount of treats your dog is given.

Keep to a set schedule

Dogs that are unable to eat on schedule end up overeating. Always feed your dog at the same time every day. Schedule three to four consistent meals a day. The times of day that your dog is eating is directly related to her weight and energy level. Keep treats and fruit pieces away Cutting back on treats and fruit pieces helps to decrease the overall calories in the dog’s diet.

However, keep them handy as they may be needed to pacify the dog in dire situations. Feed smaller meals more frequently The larger the meal the more energy it takes for the dog to eat. A one-and-a-half-pound dog will take over 100 minutes to eat a meal the size of a large grapefruit. Most dogs will eat more than they should if the food is being provided by the hand.

Exercise your dog

An important thing to remember is that weight loss requires calories to be burned, or calories from activity, not stored. Start out slowly and increase activity gradually. Most dogs have difficulty regulating the number of calories they take in, so taking a dog for a walk is the best option. The bottom line is: exercise your dog.

Avoid treat grain free diets If your dog is on a grain-free diet, that needs to stop immediately. Dogs on grain-free diets usually have difficulty regulating their food intake and therefore feel hungry more frequently . Your dog should be eating the correct amount of protein, and the recommended grain-free food must be a complete protein source Like home cooked pet food By Furrmeals .