Weight Control for Dogs

If your dog is overweight it could end up suffering from all kinds of problems ranging from back problems to heart attacks.  The good news is that with exercise, proper nutrition and by limiting your dogs food intake your dog can lose weight and start feeling better.

Some causes of overweight dogs are feeding your dog too many treats and table scraps, feeding your dog too much dog food, your dog not getting enough exercise, medical problems and choosing the wrong dog foods.

All dogs can become overweight but there are some breeds that are more prone to be overweight such as: Labrador Retrievers, Dachshunds, Beagles, Cairn Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs and Basset Hounds.

Overweight dogs can cause the following diseases: diabetes, damage to joints, bones and ligaments, difficulty breathing, Increased blood pressure and heart disease, heat intolerance, decreased stamina, decreased liver function, digestive disorders, decreased immune function, problems with skin and hair coat, increased risk of cancer and decreased quality and length of life.

Just like humans some dogs are big-boned and some are fine-boned so just weighing your dog will not determine alone if your dog is overweight. Your veterinarian will check your dog's ribs, spine, base of the tail, shoulders and the waist and abdomen to determine the body condition of your dog.

Bring you dog into our office and we will be happy to examine your dogs health, advise you on ways to get your dog to exercise more, suggestion a nutrition plan and advise you on what foods are best for your dogs health.

Provide your dog with adequate exercise which will strengthen the dog's respiratory system, helps with the digestion process, helps to keep muscles tones and joints flexible.

Provide your dog with the correct type and amount of food. Read the nutrition labels on dog food packages to insure your dog is eating the correct portion amount for its weight. Your friendly veterinarian may offer suggestions for specific pet food products.

Do not feed your dog table scraps. We recommend feeding your dog only pet foods that are formulated for dog consumption. By following this you will reduce the caloric intake and reduce the risk of feeding your dog something that may harm him/her.

Monitor your dog's weight. Weigh your dog on a regular basis to insure your dog is not gradually gaining too much weight. Visually your dog may not appear to be gaining weight but the scale will give you a definite answer.

Take your dog to your friendly veterinarian every six months for routine examinations. Some medical conditions can contribute to weight gain. Many of these conditions can be treated by your veterinarian.