Not only are Americans fatter than ever, so are their dogs and the phenomenon can have serious ramifications for both groups. Pardon the clever pun as this is no laughing matter if you consider that obese dogs, like obese people, also run a greater risk of heart and respiratory disease and weakened joints. So it becomes clear to see that if a dog’s got more than a few extra pounds on him, he becomes even more prone to poor health than humans with similar weight problems, as a dog’s lifespan isn’t as long as a person’s.
Fortunately for us and our dogs, the equation is associative and works the same in the opposite direction. Just as a healthy diet and plenty of good cardiovascular exercise can trim down a chubby man, it can take the extra weight off of a dog.
The Doggie Diet
The first thing to do in reducing an overweight or obese dog’s weight is to incorporate an exercise and diet regimen. It is important to visit a veterinarian as the doctor can determine whether the dog’s obesity is simply due to high caloric intake or some other medical concern like diabetes. They will also be able to give you informed ideas about your dog’s diet and exercise. This includes special dietary dog food that helps dogs lose weight with their unique balance of nutrients.
Helping your dog lose weight is a team effort, so even the best dietary supplements won’t work if you and your family do not help each other out in this aspect. This is a very serious plan of action that must be carried out precisely, where each family member should be aware of the amounts (and what foods) they should be feeding your dog, and when to do it. Do not be afraid to mete out punishments to anyone you catch secretly feeding your dog those sinfully succulent treats and leftover food.
Exercising Your Dog
Exercise is important for any dog. The ill effects of lack of exercise do not just include weight gain, as your dog could also be prone to extremes – either he will be too bouncy or too listless. However, exercise is second nature for most dogs. By nature, they love sprinting and leaping around with their human friends. Sure, it may not be an easy process to convince a sedentary Shepherd or a lazy Labrador to get out there and play, but just keep at it and your canine buddy will come around and learn to enjoy playing fetch with a tennis ball, or simply strolling side-by-side with his master.
It Takes Time
Just like it is with people, there’s no such thing as a diet that could make your pet dog svelte and sexy in a snap. Remember that Rover didn’t put on those extra pounds all at once and they won’t come off that way either. When it comes to going back to that ideal weight of theirs, dogs would need about a year, give or take a few months depending on the extra weight, so patience is an absolute must.
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