It can be tempting to give your dog treats and a few mouthfuls of food from your plate. When they tilt their head and give you puppy dog eyes, the last thing you want to do is tell them no. However, lots of unhealthy food can lead to health complications for your dog. It’s important to exercise your dog most days and keep their diet clean.
The UK bought over 3 million pets during lockdown, and many of them were dogs. Overweight dogs are more prone to arthritis, diabetes, heart trouble, and breathing problems. It might be time to switch things up if your puppy has been on the same food and exercise regime for a while. Small changes to your dog’s routine can make a huge difference to their energy levels, sleep routine, and overall health.
So, how do you know if your dog is overweight?
Some dogs are overweight by a few pounds, while others are settled into the obesity category. Toys should be between 3 and 12lbs; small dogs between 12 to 30lbs; medium dogs between 30 – 55lbs; large dogs between 55 to 80lbs and extra-large dogs between 80 and 110lbs. If you are unsure which category your pet falls into, consult your vet for advice.
You can also do a simple test by seeing if your puppy’s ribs, pelvis, and collar bones are visible. If you can see all of these, your dog is probably underweight. In a healthy dog, you will be able to feel their rib cage, but it won’t be visibly prominent. Always ask a professional for an exact diagnosis.
How can you help your dog?
Invest in a healthy natural dog food to keep your pet strong and energised throughout the day. Stick with a balanced food that isn’t particularly high in protein or carbohydrates. Choose a delicious flavour for them and stick to nutritious dog food that provides all the vitamins they need.
Exercise
Walk your dog at least once a day for thirty minutes and twice when you have the time. You could hire a dog walker to help you take care of your dog while also working and caring for your family. Playing with your dog at home is also a great way to get their exercise in.
Do a check-up
Your puppy should lose around 2% body fat every week. Keep an eye on their diet, digestive system, energy, and mood throughout the weight management process.