Yo Dog, Let's Shed that Winter Weight!

Like most dogs, I can hardly resist a tasty treat. I love it when my mom or dad rattle that treat jar in the kitchen, because I know what's about to follow!! Yum, yum!!

Being stuck mostly inside all winter, however, has meant there's been days where I've had too many treats and not enough exercise (even my daddy agrees he's suffered this same fate!). 

Often times for larger breed dogs like myself, it can be difficult to tell if a dog is carrying too much weight. Some breeds with thick fur or lots of fur may look fluffy all the time, and some dogs may be shaped differently that other breeds, so it can be hard to tell if a doggie needs to shed a few pounds.

According to a study by Pet Obesity Prevention, more than half of all dogs in the United States are overweight (and yes, I might fall into that category myself!!!). In the study, pet owners reported that only a little more than half of their veterinarians made it a point to bring up their dog's weight during their wellness visits. On top of that, only 15% of dog owners report weighing their dogs at home at least once a month.

 

I know it's very easy for my mom or dad to lose track of how many treats I've had in a day, or even if I've been fed in the morning (not that I'm complaining about being fed twice at breakfast!!) Plus, I know I pretty much had them trained myself to reward me with a treat if I'm a good girl. 

However, here are some warning signs that your dog at home may be overweight:

• You can't feel bones or ribs 

• You notice pockets of fat on their body

• You do not see a waist indentation from their chest

• They don't move as quickly as they used to

• They pant when walking at even a slower pace

Additionally, here are some ways to help your dog lose a few pounds:

• Stop giving table scraps

• Replace a second meal in the day with mostly green beans or a doggie multivitamin in the evening

• Consider healthier doggie treats

• Keep track of calories

• Find an exercise both you and your dog can enjoy

• Talk to your veterinarian about what a good weight loss program might be

Stay healthy y'all!!

Love,

Betty