Is your dog too fat? Quick ways to tell and easy steps to help
Research shows that 22-44% of pets are substantially heavier than their ideal body weight. Weighing too much is the most prevalent nutritional concern for dogs and cats.
Weighing just a few extra pounds can significantly decrease the lifespan and quality of life for your dog. So it’s critical to maintain a healthy dog weight.
The good news is that keeping your pup at a healthy dog weight is something owners can manage by controlling what their dogs eat and making sure they get enough exercise.
We talked with Dr. Jennifer Adolphe, senior nutritionist at Petcurean Pet Nutrition, to get her tips.
What is a healthy dog weight?
To assess your dog’s weight, use a body score chart.
Look for a proportioned, slightly hourglass body shape when viewed from above, a slight tummy tuck, and a thin covering of body fat over the ribs and spine.
When running your hands along your dog’s body, you should be able to feel the ribs and hips without pressing hard. It is also vital to regularly weigh your pet to monitor for changes.
If you determine that your dog needs to shed a few pounds, determine how much you are currently feeding and cut this amount down slightly.
Ideally, your pet’s food should be weighed, not measured or free-fed, so that you can accurately determine how much you feed.
After a week, weigh your pet to see how much weight has been lost. A 1-2% body weight loss per week is ideal, as a rapid decline can be harmful to your dog.
While you can feed less of the current food your dog receives, weight loss recipes are another option to help manage your dog’s weight.
These foods usually allow you to feed a similar volume of food while reducing calories.
How much should I feed my dog?
The feeding guidelines on dog food bags are a great place to start, but adjustments will most likely need to be made to create an individualized feeding plan for your dog.
Should I adjust how much I feed my dog as he gets older?
Dogs are often less active as they get older and their metabolism slows down. You will likely need to feed less as the years go by.
Throughout your dog’s life, it is crucial to monitor your dog’s weight and maintain an ideal body condition score as described previously.
In addition to regular vet visits, maintaining a healthy weight for your dog is one of the best things you can do to help your dog live a long, healthy life.
Use an automatic feeder
Consistent and precise portion control is essential for helping dogs lose weight, and automatic dog feeders serve as effective tools in this process.
These feeders offer mathematical precision in portion delivery, making them far superior to relying on visual estimations or measuring cups.
By using automatic feeders, pet owners can ensure that their dogs receive the exact amount of food needed, which is crucial for effective weight management.
This knowledge not only facilitates better weight control but also provides peace of mind for pet owners.
How do you determine that your dog is getting enough exercise?
Most dogs will never turn up their nose at a romp outside, and they make terrific exercise companions.
Dogs, like us, need about 30-60 minutes of exercise per day.
Some dogs with high energy levels may need even more high-intensity exercise to keep them happy.
Exercise has numerous health benefits for both you and your dog by helping to maintain ideal body weight and promoting the maintenance of lean muscle tissue for overall health.
What about human foods?
While the correct amount of a complete and balanced dog food is all your dog needs, some low-calorie vegetables, such as pumpkin or green beans, are a delicious and nutritious option for keeping your dog satisfied to maintain a healthy weight.
Veggies are also a good option to use as low-calorie treats. Make sure to introduce any new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset.
Incorporating healthy human foods into your dog’s diet can support weight management. Here are some examples:
Vegetables: Low-calorie options like carrots, green beans, and cucumber slices are high in fiber and can help your dog feel full.
Fruits: Blueberries, apple slices (seeds removed), and watermelon (without seeds and rind) are nutritious treats rich in vitamins.
Lean proteins: Cooked chicken, turkey, and fish like salmon provide essential protein while keeping calories low. Remove skin and bones before serving.
Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal are fiber-rich options that can be included in moderation.
Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin is low in calories and high in fiber, which aids digestion.
Sweet potatoes: Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense and provide a satisfying flavor.
Introduce new foods gradually and consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet. These healthy additions can help maintain weight while offering variety.
What about treats?
We all love to give our pets a treat or two once in a while. It is essential to carefully monitor the number of treats you feed to avoid unnecessary calories.
Treats can add up fast, so it is recommended that you portion out your dog’s daily treat allowance into a separate container. When the treat container is empty, that is all for the day.
If your dog needs to shed a few pounds, restrict those extra treats and say no to table scraps.
Health risks
A dog that weighs too much faces several health risks that can affect its quality of life and lifespan.
Key concerns include diabetes, which can lead to serious complications; joint problems like arthritis due to extra stress on joints; and respiratory issues that hinder breathing and reduce energy levels.
Additionally, obesity increases the risk of heart disease and certain cancers, making it crucial to maintain a healthy weight.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight offers numerous benefits.
It helps prevent serious health issues, promotes higher energy levels, and improves mobility, allowing for more play and exercise.
A balanced weight supports better metabolism and digestion and contributes to better emotional well-being, resulting in a more content and active pet.
Final thoughts on healthy dog weight
Maintaining a healthy weight for your dog is crucial for their overall well-being and longevity.
By being mindful of your dog’s diet, incorporating appropriate human foods like low-calorie veggies, and ensuring they receive sufficient exercise, you can significantly enhance their quality of life.
Regularly monitoring their weight and consulting with a veterinarian will also help you tailor their nutrition and exercise plans as they age.
By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure your furry friend remains happy, active, and healthy for years to come. Remember, a healthy dog is a happy dog.
Sara B. Hansen has spent 20-plus years as a professional editor and writer. She’s also the author of The Complete Guide to Cocker Spaniels. She decided to create her dream job by launching DogsBestLife.com in 2011. Sara grew up with family dogs, and since she bought her first house, she’s had a furry companion or two to help make it a home. She shares her heart and home with Nutmeg, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Her previous dogs: Sydney (September 2008-April 2020), Finley (November 1993-January 2008), and Browning (May 1993-November 2007). You can reach Sara @ editor@dogsbestlife.com.