Obesity

Is your dog overweight? Have you tried everything to get the weight off with out success?

A dog is overweight if it is 5% to 19% above its ideal weight. An obese dog is 20% or more above its ideal weight. The extra weight does matter. An extra 7 pounds on a dog that normally weigh 35 lbs is a big deal. It’s similar to an extra 30 pounds on a person who should weigh 150 pounds.

Obesity is associated with serious health problems: arthritis, cardiac disease, respiratory conditions, heart and exercise intolerance, insulin resistance leading to diabetes, increased surgical and anesthetic risks, cruciate (ACL) ruptures. Many dogs (25% - 40%) are considered overweight or obese. The primary causes are overfeeding and inactivity. Breed and age can be additional factors.

You can help your dog lose weight with time, commitment and a little tough love. Here are some simple steps to weight loss success:

    Step 1 Cut back on feeding
  • Try giving multiple small meals each day with fewer or smaller “treats” between meals. Stay strong when your dog begs with her big sad “starving” eyes.
  • Ask us your veterinary team for advice on how much & how often you should feed your dog.
  • Don’t believe everything your butcher, groomer, pet food retailer tells you
  • Measure the food- we have free measuring cups available just ask for one next time you are in
  • Use commercial name brand foods rather than generic, house brands or homemade diets to ensure proper balance & nutrition
  • Keep the dog away from the table when you are eating
  • Use part of the measured food for the day as treats
  • Tell your family, friends, and neighbors about the diet & ask that they help keep your dog alive longer
    Step 2 Encourage more exercise
  • Take your pet for more walks. The activity will be good for both of you!
  • Try to get in 30 minutes of exercise and playtime everyday
  • Exercise at the same time each day to get into the habit
  • Start slowly especially if you have a couch potato
  • Instead of treats for good behavior take a walk or play fetch
    Step 3 Talk to us
  • Ask your veterinarians about weight management, diet, exercise, and underlying health issues.