Obesity In Dogs

 Numerous studies have shown that more Americans are obese today than ever before and, interestingly, we're not the only ones. Not only are Americans fatter than ever, so are their dogs; and the phenomenon can have serious ramifications for both groups. Obese dogs run a lot of the same risks that obese people do. When a dog is over weight it is at higher risk for heart disease, respiratory ailments, weak joints and other problems. In short; it is every bit as dangerous for a dog to be carrying extra weight as it is for a person - perhaps more so due to the shorter lifespan that dogs have. An overweight eight year old dog is akin to an overweight fifty-six year old man and subject to many of the same health risks.

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.

Doggie Diets:

To reduce the overweight or obese dog's body weight, a program of diet and exercise should be introduced. 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. The vet can also give you the best suggestions about diet and exercise. There are many brands of dog food on the market that are specially balanced to help a dog lose weight.

Despite what food or dietary supplements you're using, there is no substitute for the support and commitment of the family. Each member must agree to help control the dog's caloric intake, feeding exact amounts at exact times and limiting the intake of snacks. Feeding the dog extra treats or table scraps on the sly will not be doing the pooch any favors.

Doggie Exercise Programs:

Exercise is important for any dog. A dog that doesn't get enough exercise quickly gains weight and may become extremely keyed up or very lethargic. Fortunately, most dogs love to exercise by nature. They love to run and play with their people. The overweight dog my be reluctant to exercise at first, but if you persist in taking him for walks or to play games like "fetch" (most dogs love to run after a thrown tennis ball or other object), the pup will soon come around and start exercising more frequently and for longer periods of time.

It Takes Time:

People don't get to their ideal weight overnight when dieting and neither will a dog. Remember that Rover didn't put on those extra pounds all at once and they won't come off that way either. Most dogs take between ten and twelve months to reach their ideal weight goal, depending upon how much extra weight must be lost.
About the Author

Kirsten Hawkins is a dog lover and animal expert from Nashville, TN. Visit http://www.doghealth411.com/ for more information on dog health, the care of dogs, and dog travel.

 Kirsten Hawkins

More Articles 

Toys are GOOD for your dog - Tina Spriggs
Did you know that dog toys are actually good for your dog, and not just an indulgence on the part of the owner? There are all kinds of uses for different types of toys. First, starting as puppies, toys give your dog a distraction from other...

Even Dogs Get the Holiday Blues: Meditation Can Help - James Jacobson
Although your dog may not dread the family dynamics of Thanksgiving dinner or pout if you get him the wrong flavor chew toy, the approaching holiday season can cause stress for your dog. A different schedule than usual, travel or separation from...

Dog Agility Training - Joel Walsh
Without agility, the most muscular person in the world couldn't win a fight against a fifth-grader. But did you know that for a dog agility is possibly even more important? With so many of a dog's happiest moments spent running, jumping,...

Responsible Dog Ownership - MJ Plaster
With all the companionship and love that our dogs give so freely, it's hard to imagine that some owners just don't take responsibility for their dogs. But it's true. Millions of dogs—healthy dogs—are euthanized every year. Whether through owner...

When Dog Training Really Matters - Jack Russell
Dogs can be very sociable. In fact, they sometimes get too sociable and get aggressive. That is why it is important to train the dogs to control their behavior. Moreover, dog trainings are important to avoid dog biting incidents. Statistics...

Dog Training - Cindy Frendo
It is important for you to train your dog to perform correct behaviours so that both of you can maintain a happy relationship. It is important for you as an owner to be the boss. If the dog thinks he is higher than you, he will not obey you and...

Dog Accessories - Kirsten Hawkins
Dog ownership carries with it the burden of a number of other purchases. In order to properly care for a dog and to comply with certain local laws, the owner must have a number of dog accessories in his or her arsenal. Some of these items are...

Protective Dog Clothing For Your Active Dog - Teresa James
You’ll want to use protective dog clothing to keep your active dog safe and warm when adventuring in the great outdoors. The right dog clothing will go a long way in protecting your dog from cuts, scratches and severe weather conditions. Protective...

Putting A Dog To Sleep - Jeff Cuckson
I was talking to a friend of mine today and I asked him how his kids (dogs) were. He lives on his own and the standing joke is - "does he want to do a swap with his dogs and my kids?" He informed me very sadly that he had to get the older dog put...

Common Signs of Arthritis in Dogs - Overview of Dog Arthritis Medications and Supplements - Valerie Goettsch
Unfortunately, arthritis in dogs is about as common as it is in people. It may range from mild to moderate or severe. If your dog is overweight, the extra pressure on joints can exacerbate the problem. And, as with humans, there may be joint...