I can only imagine how much you love your canine friend. Most dog owners have a genuine relationship with their dogs that grows stronger with time. For this reason, I understand why you often indulge your dog in snacks and extra treats.
I have nothing against spoiling your beloved pup. But here’s the thing. I need you to consider the adverse effects of failing to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle for your dog. Is it something to think about?
I’m sure you do. This is based on the fact that an overweight dog will succumb to many health problems. Some of these include Breathing, diabetes, and heart ailments. This added weight that the dog moves around with adds to the stress.
How do you tell if your dog is overweight or obese?
This is not a big deal. You can always tell if your dog needs some lifestyle changes. If you cannot locate your dog’s ribs, then they’re an overweight dog.
Understand that obesity causes stroke, cancer, constipation, heart failure, heart attacks, diabetes, and intestinal gas. As a result, obese dogs are likely to have hypertension, spinal issues, arthritis, or even die during surgery. Consequently, these dogs tend to have a short lifespan. And guess what causes all these problems? Our inability to moderate the food we feed our dogs, all in the name of love.
Remember that a dog is considered overweight if it carries 10% more than itsĀ ideal weight. But if it holds 20% extra, it’s considered obese. I know many people who are hesitant to accept the fact that their dogs are obese. In any case, it does not do you any good. Accept the problem so that you can find a solution.
How to conduct a quick obesity checkup
You need to consider the breed standards stipulated for the purebred dogs. The standards highlight the ideal weight and height for this dog. You first need to verify whether your dog fits the criteria.
If you own a mixed breed, there are standards for purebred breeds, which can be compared with your dog’s height and body type. Get a proper measurement of your dog while they’re standing. This should extend from the withers to the ground. You then compare this with the purebred’s height.
Weighing your dog should be fine. You need to pick them up and then stand on the bathroom scale. You then weigh yourself without holding him and subtract to get the difference. Alternatively, you can weigh them at the vet’s office. You’ll then compare his weight with the breed standard close to your dog’s. The leading causes of obesity are activity and overeating.
What is the solution?
Regular check-ups at the vet will play a significant role. This should be done before you start making radical changes in the diet. However, you must understand that other factors, such as thyroid problems, might cause obesity. It would help if you ruled out these factors by visiting your vet. If the vet advocates for an exercise plan or new diet, do precisely that. Understand that you play a huge role in your canine’s life. Be moderate about what you feed them.
If you consistently apply this remedy, you’ll finally see results. You’ll be pleased to know the dog dashing across the fields as it leaps into the air for a Frisbee. Keep that in mind.