Did you know that nearly 50% of dogs can be considered as fact or obese, or in danger of becoming overweight to the point where their health and well-being will be threatened? Dog obesity is the most common condition affecting their health. Overweight conditions in dogs and most other pets is primarily caused by lack of exercise, poor diet and over feeding.
Table scraps and other unhealthy foods can cause dogs to become overweight and have many diet related maladies comparable to humans. Many people are unable to correctly determine if their pet is overweight and often times it is veterinarian that will discover this condition.
Overweight dogs will experience breathing difficulties, walking difficulties, and exhaustion from short periods spent outdoors in hot weather. Other conditions such as urinary tract infections, worms, and other digestive ailments can also develop.
A critical evaluation of your dogs current diet will be essential to the creation of a successful weight loss program. Avoid overfeeding and giving table scraps, treats, and moist canned foods. Substitute those for healthy hand held treats and raw vegetables. Provide the proper percentage of high fiber dry, or other healthy pet foods. Increase their water intake and provide plenty of extra exercise.
Overweight conditions in dogs and other pets is primarily caused by over eating and over feeding. Taking a lesson from farmers and cattle ranchers and feed your pets a specific amount of food each day using a measuring cup if necessary. feeding more than once a day but in small amounts is the ideal system.
Just filling the bowl in the morning is not a good idea because animals tend to eat beyond what they need and gain weight because of it. Large meals or gorging can lead to canine diabetes and slowed metabolism as your dog reaches middle age. Buildup of fat around the belly and organs can contribute to a multitude of serious conditions, such as kidney failure, later in life.
Avoid any kind of "crash" weight loss methods, as they are unhealthy and potentially dangerous for animals as well as humans. Drastic weight loss can be a sign of a disease like canine diabetes, only a complete veterinary checkup will reveal this condition. Be wary of excessive hunger, drinking, and urination as these are also signs of a serious condition.
Rawhide chew bones and toys are an excellent way to increase your dogs activity, take their mind off hunger, and clean their teeth as well. Maintain constant feeding times and reduce the amount of food in their bowl. Be sure to keep their water bowl full and clean especially during the hot summer months.
Vigorous activities with the family will benefit all, keeping the pounds off, raising metabolism, and creating a general sense of well being and high energy. Social activities, such as a good training program can be a great experience for your pet as it allows them to adapt to new situations, keeping them alert and happy.
Ultimately, it is up to you and the rest of the family to become deeply involved in you dog's health and well being. Frequent exercise and activity are the keys to a long and healthy life!
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