Diets for Overweight Dogs

Dogs become overweight, just as people do. While we might think the extra padding on our dogs is adorable, it is unhealthy for the dog to carry too much weight.

Overweight is a major health risk for dogs. Just a small weight gain can cause health problems. Health risks associated with overweight include: heart problems, diabetes risk, arthritis, difficulty breathing, decreased stamina, back problems and problems in the legs and joints. Overweight directly impacts the length and quality of life for your pet

New Year's Day is a time for resolutions, which often include the resolution to whittle the waistline. If your pet has become overweight, include them in this healthy goal when making healthy New Year's resolutions.

Pets gain weight for many of the same reasons that people do. High caloric intake, high fat food and not enough activity.
.
A active, healthy dog is a joyous companion. Keeping your dog at an ideal weight can help to reduce the vet bill. The complications of overweight can cause medical problems that require treatment and medication. Overweight can shorten the life of your canine companion.

Overweight can shorten your beloved pet's life. Take steps to keep your companion animal healthy for a long time by helping them to lose weight.

Just as people who want to lose weight should visit a doctor, a pet's weight loss plan should start with a visit to the vet. The Veterinarian is qualified to make recommendations about the ideal weight for your dog and to suggest the best methods of weight loss.

The veterinarian will probably recommend a regulated diet as part of the weight loss plan; There are several good brands of reduced calorie diet for canines. Hill's Science Diet offers a prescription brand which is available only through veterinarians. The reduced diet from Hills is a low fat, reduced calorie, high fiber formula that helps dogs to lose weight while they stay full feeling. Ask the vet if a prescription diet is appropriate for your dog.