Labrador Forums, Labrador chat rooms, photos, breeders, rescue -> Diet

SmudgesMum writes "Canine obesity is a 'big' problem and studies have shown that it affects 40 to 50 per cent of dogs. If a dog consumes too many calories and doesn't exercise enough, the result is inevitable he'll pile on the pounds. But, once you've established that your dog is overweight, what's the next step?

If he's considerably overweight (or you suspect he is), don't do anything drastic until you've paid a visit to your vet. Ask their advice and work together at sticking to a proper weight-reduction plan. Your vet will assess your dog's obesity and diet and decide if there are any complicating disease concerns, for example, diabetes. In these cases, a prescription type diet may be recommended.

If your vet advocates a particular health and weight programme for your dog, then try to stick to it. Your dog's health will benefit in the long term, so it's well worth the effort. Tell everyone in the family not to give him extra food as treating him with even a few titbits can ruin one week's hard work.

Simply reducing the amount of food your dog eats is not normally recommended as your dog will get very hungry and end up begging for more! This method will not only reduce his calorie intake, but also other vital nutrients like protein and vitamins. There are diets available which are nutritionally balanced, low in calories, full of filling fibre and tasty. Again, ask your vet.

If your dog doesn't exercise, then it's time to change his ways because, just as we do, pets need to burn off the calories they consume. Try taking him out for a brisk ten-minute walk every day. After two weeks, walk for 20 minutes. In time, perhaps you could both do more.

In place of food, reward your podgy pooch with lots of cuddles, playing games together or going for walks. If you simply cannot resist, give him a low calorie treat for his good work such as a couple of ice cubes (for larger dogs) or a few slices of carrot (too many can cause diarrhoea). There are also a number of low fat treats available in the shops, but use them sparingly it's likely that he'll try and persuade you to indulge in his bad habits!

If your dog is only slightly overweight, then try feeding his daily quota in several portions throughout the day so he doesn't feel cheated. Leave his bowl of food for 15 minutes only and then pick it up, even if he hasn't licked it clean. Be vigilant too leave food out of sight and reach. Dogs are natural scavengers and he'll be enticed by bin bags containing scraps, so keep them well out of temptation's way.

Bear in mind that excess weight should be lost gradually, at the most at a rate of 1 to 1 pounds a week. Take him for regular weight checks at your vet's to monitor his weight loss. This is essential for small dogs who tend to have a high metabolic rate and dissipate heat and weight rapidly.

When your dog has reached his goal, don't obliterate all the hard work it's taken to get there. You will both reap rewards for your efforts your dog will enjoy life more in a svelte condition. He'll be healthy, happy and fit, and you will have a bouncy energetic pup-like canine to run around with (or chase after)!"

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