Some Fun Facts About Canine Obesity

It has been estimated that nearly 50% of dogs in our country are obese. This is a startling number considering the fact that we love dogs and do not want these furry companions to have any health problems. But then why is this number showing up? A major worrying factor that results in obese dogs is diseases like arthritis, high blood pressure, certain types of cancer, compromised immune function along with heart and lung disease. It has been researched and found out that dogs that maintain their ideal weight live 15% longer than those who are obese. In fact, if the obesity issue is not resolved in dogs it will shorten the lives of these furry companions.

There are certain dog owners who recognize the fact that their furry companions are a little heavy but they do not fully recognize that their doggy is obese. When a veterinarian suggests a dog owner to make his Fido lose 5 lbs. it often goes from one ear to the next without really taking things seriously. But when you compare the dog weight with human weight you will be able to understand the perspective:

Did you know that:

· 5 extra lbs. on a 12 lbs. Shih Tzu is like 58 extra lbs. on a 140 lbs. woman (This is 42% more weight of the dog than the ideal weight!)

· 5 extra lbs. on a 25 lbs. Beagle is like 28 extra lbs. on a 140 lbs. woman (This is 20% more weight of the dog than the ideal weight!)

· 5 extra lbs. on a 70 lbs. Lab Retriever is like 10 extra lbs. on a 140 lbs. woman (This is approximately 7% more weight weight of the dog than the ideal weight!)

One prime reason for obesity in dogs is overfeeding. It is as if you are pampering your furry pal for being good. But frequent and overfeeding is harmful for the dog's health as it contains lots of excessive calories that need to be burned otherwise it can result in diseases. So, in order to avoid this, follow these steps given below:

· Recognize that your pooch is overweight (Because knowing the problem is half the problem solved.)

· Consult with your veterinarian and ask them to conduct full body checkup of your pooch. It is important to know how obese your dog is and also know how many calories need to be fed to the furry pal.

· Select the best food for weight loss of the doggy. There are wide array of options available in the market to choose from. Consult your veterinarian and then choose the food that maintains lean body mass and strength in the dog.

· Follow a strict exercise regime for your doggy on a daily basis.

· Note down the weight of your furry pal in the beginning and then monitor it after regular interval.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Some-Fun-Facts-About-Canine-Obesity&id=9748824

Helping Your Overweight Dog Lose Pounds and Have Fun Doing It

Is your dog starting to look a little pudgy and needing a diet? Many dog owners are unsure about finding the right diet. We have the best information for dog diets. All the information contained in this article will help your dog diet safely.

Common Reasons For Dog Obesity

One of the most important steps an owner needs to discover is the reason for their pet's obesity. You may be feeding your dog the right amount of food but just not enough exercise, in this case he will need added physical activity. Perhaps you enjoy sneaking your pal some scrapes under the table? In fact, that is one of the leading causes of canine obesity. The food humans consume is not meant for your four legged friend. Or maybe your dog is just eating way too much dog food per serving. If he is, all that is required is simply cutting back the amount in his bowl at each serving.

Cushing's Syndrome

There are issues other than overeating that can cause obesity in your dog, including Cushing's syndrome, hypothyroidism, as well as other hormonal issues. In addition to regulating your dog's diet, you will need to seek out vetrinary care for those conditions. Once you have been able to narrow down the cause of the problem, you will be able to treat it properly.

Proper Foods To Feed Your Dog

If you dog is packing on the pounds, eliminate all table scraps. Talk to your veterinarian about a low calorie diet for your dog. Generally, most veterinarians will recommend a high fiber, low fat diet. In addition there are many all natural diets available for your pet.

When you begin a diet for your dog feed him once a day, and remove the food after he walks away. Be certain to stick to the proper amount of food that is recommended by your vet. Most foods will have a recommended amount on the bag, it is suggested to still check with your veterinarian.

Consider reducing the number of treats and goodies you give your pet on a daily basis. Treats should only make up 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. There are many low calorie treats that are perfect for dogs that needing to lose weight.

The Need For Daily Exercise

If your dog has occasional exercise but it still getting chunky more exercise will be needed. If your dog has not been on a steady exercise plan, it is time to start one. Dogs will burn more calories when they are active and having fun. If you are looking to get in better shape as well, a long walk will do you great! 

Other ways of exercising your dog that is fun include games of catch and dog agility courses Whatever activity you choose to do with your dog make sure it is done on a regular basis and have fun doing it.

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Helping Your Obese Dog Slim Down

Just like humans, dogs can get fat. But unlike people, it's not something that your dog has much say over. If you are feeding your pet big meals and letting him lie around the house all day, he will get fat. And, as your pet gets older, his weight gain can become even more noticeable as he loses energy and looks for food more often.

If you want to help your dog live a long and healthy life than you need to help him lose that extra weight. Obesity drastically increases a dog's risk of cancer, diabetes, and organ failure as he ages. Start when your pet is young and you can reduce the risk of disease throughout his life.

Step One: Food Intake

The first thing you should do for your dog is take charge of his diet. In most cases obesity is simply due to a dog being fed too much each day. Veterinarians suggest feeding the following amounts for your dog, based on their weight:

· Less than 10 pounds: Feed 1/3 to 1 cup of food per day

· 10-25 pounds: Feed 1-2 1/4 cups per day

· 25-50 pounds: Feed 2-3 cups per day

· 50-75 pounds: Feed 3-5 cups per day

· Over 75 pounds: Feed 5-8 cups per day

Dog Food Measuring Cup

These measurements are for dry food and the weights given are for normal, healthy animals. If your dog is already overweight or obese, you should take into consideration what a healthy dog for your dog's breed should weigh.

You can start cutting out your dog's extra food by feeding your dog two meals per day. Split his recommended food amount into two meals. Some people like to put down the dog's ration once a day and keep filling the bowl throughout the day but that's the best way in the world to make your dog obese. Instead, feed your dog two smaller meals per day and carefully measure the amounts you put in the bowl.

You should also cut out unnecessary treats and table scraps. Treats are fine as a training tool but you shouldn't give them to your dog continuously. It's okay to give your dog one or two treats per day but if you keep giving your dog treats all day they will add pounds to your dog. Table scraps add weight, too.

Step Two: Exercise

Ask anyone who's been on a diet and they will probably tell you that it's not enough to eat less. They also have to add some exercise to lose weight. It's the same way with your dog. Luckily, most dogs enjoy exercising.

Unless your dog is elderly or he's lost his energy, he will probably enjoy getting out to go for a walk or run. But you must give your dog the opportunity! Your dog may sit around the house all day, but don't assume that he doesn't want to go out and get some exercise. You have to go outside with him and give him the chance to exercise.

If you don't have a chance to go out, then spend time playing with your dog indoors. Play some games. Play fetch with your dog and teach your dog to chase some toys through the house. If you have a small dog then you won't even have to get up when you play fetch with him.

Even if you have a dog with a low energy level, often times when you start making changes in your dog's diet you will start to see some changes in their level of energy. If you take them outdoors after you change their diet, you may see that your dog is more alert and energetic. Your dog may feel like playing again.

Do keep in mind that if your dog is very overweight or obese, or unhealthy in any way, that you should talk to your veterinarian before making changes to your dog's diet or undertaking any kind of fitness regimen with your dog. You want to make sure that you aren't putting any undue stress on your dog's body with the changes you want to make. Your vet can give you some good advice.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Helping-Your-Obese-Dog-Slim-Down&id=8190551

Dealing With An Overweight Dog

It's estimated that around 40 percent of the dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. Most of those dogs are overweight simply because their owners are feeding them too much food and the dogs don't get enough exercise.

Most of us can't stand for our dogs to be hungry. All it takes is for our dog to turn those big, pleading eyes on us and we get out the food bowl. But, realistically, it's much healthier for your dog to maintain a healthy weight even if it means cutting back on the food.

If you have any doubts about whether or not your dog is overweight there are a couple of good ways to tell. First of all, most dogs should have a "waist." That is, behind their ribcage, your dog should have a slight tuck up in his flank area.

Secondly, you should be able to not only find your dog's ribs when you feel his sides, but you should be able to feel them. They should not be sticking out and he shouldn't look skinny. But when you run your hands over your dog you should be able to feel the ribs. If you have to poke through several layers of flab to find your dog's ribs then your dog is definitely overweight!

Third, when viewed from above, or from any other angle, your dog should not have a back like a table top. It shouldn't be broad and flat. You shouldn't be able to set a tray on your dog's back.

And, fourth, you will know if your dog is overweight if he waddles when he walks or if he becomes tired easily when he exercises. Fit dogs should be able to take a moderately long walk without tiring or run and play without getting worn out quickly.

If your dog is overweight you can help your dog slim down by following some sensible diet suggestions.

1. Measure your dog's food and feed him controlled portions. No free feeding or keeping food in the bowl 24/7. Check the dog food label and use it as a guideline for the amount that you should feed your dog. Feed your dog 1 meal a day or 2 times if it makes you feel better. If you feed twice a day simply divide the daily ration and feed it in two meals.

2. Cut out the snacks and treats, or at least change to healthy treats such as apples and carrots that won't pile on pounds.

3. If your dog acts like he's starving, add canned green beans to his meals. Green beans will add some bulk to your dog's diet and help him feel fuller without adding a lot of calories.

4. Slowly start increasing your dog's exercise. Start with short walks and gradually increase them to moderately long walks. As your dog loses weight he will probably start to feel more active.

If you follow these suggestions you can help your dog lose the extra weight and live a healthier life.

Source:https://ezinearticles.com/?Dealing-With-An-Overweight-Dog&id=8150981

5 Practical Tips to Help Your Overweight Dog!

The obesity epidemic is hitting humans hard, with more than 1/3 of adults in the US and UK clinically overweight or obese. Our pets are quickly following suit. Some experts blame processed commercial dog foods while others place the blame on heavy-handed feeding practices. Food is love, right? Wrong.

It's true that most of us over-feed our pets. We give snacks and treats as often as we can and give in to their begging behavior. Veterinarians may charge us with the task of helping our dog to lose weight, but many don't know how to begin. Let's take a look at some basics on how to put your overweight dog on a diet.

Tip #1: Visit to the Vet

If you're not sure what your pet's ideal weight should be for their age and breed, ask your veterinarian. A physical examination will help determine your pet's body condition score and level of obesity. The vet can then help you determine what kind of diet your dog needs to be on. Some veterinarians will offer nutritional counselling, providing you with a very specific meal plan, number of calories per day or prescription diet.

Tip #2: Measure the food

Commercial dog foods have published feeding instructions on the side of every bag of dry dog food. Some canned foods also have feeding recommendations. Feeding recommendations are based on current body weight.

Always remember that the recommended amount to feed is the DAILY RATION. 

If you feed your dog twice a day, you must split the recommended amount in half. It is a common mistake for owners to read the bag and give that amount twice a day - essentially feeding twice as much as the dog needs. If you read the bag and realize that you have been overfeeding, go ahead and feed what is recommended. Your pet may begin to lose weight from this simple change alone. If your veterinarian recommends a certain amount, be sure to measure it out accurately using a standard imperial dry-measure cup or weight it out in grams.

Tip #3: No Snacking

It's thought that the French have one of the lowest rates of obesity in the world due to their cultural "ban" on snacking. Americans are the worst about eating all day long, snacking in between meals and eating more calories than we should. Many of us do the same for our dogs. Even if we have a "healthy" snack, such as an apple, we may give some of these extra calories to our patiently waiting pooch.

If you do give your dog treats or snacks, stick to low-calorie options and very small portions - no larger than your thumbnail 1-2 times daily. Also incorporate this treat as a reward during training or physical exercise. Your dog will simply be happy that you are giving them attention and affection, even if it is less food.

Tip #4: Begging Behavior

Don't give into the begging! This is one of the reasons that pet diet plans fail. When you cut out the snacks and reduce the amount of food that they are eating - sometimes they will beg for more. If you give in to this annoying habit, you are actually positively reinforcing the behavior - making them more likely to beg in the future!

Tip #5: No Table Food

If your dog eats the same way that you do, this can be the cause of their obesity. Many dogs don't eat commercial dog food and can suffer the ill effects of a high calorie 'human' diet. To remedy this, cut back on the table food very gradually, as going 'cold turkey' can cause annoying begging behavior. If your dog will only eat roast beef and boiled rice, mix it in with a high-quality canned dog food. As your dog gets used to the new textures and flavors, slowly phase out the 'human food.'

Eating a balanced diet will do wonders not only for the waistline but for their overall health as well. These tips should set you and your pudgy pooch up for dieting success. Always remember to discuss weight loss plans with your pet's veterinarian. 'Crash diets' and suddenly reducing calories can be stressful for you and your pet. Remember: slow and steady wins the race.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Practical-Tips-to-Help-Your-Overweight-Dog!&id=9199085

5 Practical Tips to Help Your Overweight Dog!

The obesity epidemic is hitting humans hard, with more than 1/3 of adults in the US and UK clinically overweight or obese. Our pets are quickly following suit. Some experts blame processed commercial dog foods while others place the blame on heavy-handed feeding practices. Food is love, right? Wrong.

It's true that most of us over-feed our pets. We give snacks and treats as often as we can and give in to their begging behavior. Veterinarians may charge us with the task of helping our dog to lose weight, but many don't know how to begin. Let's take a look at some basics on how to put your overweight dog on a diet.

Tip #1: Visit to the Vet

If you're not sure what your pet's ideal weight should be for their age and breed, ask your veterinarian. A physical examination will help determine your pet's body condition score and level of obesity. The vet can then help you determine what kind of diet your dog needs to be on. Some veterinarians will offer nutritional counseling, providing you with a very specific meal plan, number of calories per day or prescription diet.

Tip #2: Measure the food

Commercial dog foods have published feeding instructions on the side of every bag of dry dog food. Some canned foods also have feeding recommendations. Feeding recommendations are based on current body weight.

Always remember that the recommended amount to feed is the DAILY RATION. 

If you feed your dog twice a day, you must split the recommended amount in half. It is a common mistake for owners to read the bag and give that amount twice a day - essentially feeding twice as much as the dog needs. If you read the bag and realize that you

have been overfeeding, go ahead and feed what is recommended. Your pet may begin to lose weight from this simple change alone. If your veterinarian recommends a certain amount, be sure to measure it out accurately using a standard imperial dry-measure cup or weight it out in grams.

Tip #3: No Snacking

It's thought that the French have one of the lowest rates of obesity in the world due to their cultural "ban" on snacking. Americans are the worst about eating all day long, snacking in between meals and eating more calories than we should. Many of us do the same for our dogs. Even if we have a "healthy" snack, such as an apple, we may give some of these extra calories to our patiently waiting pooch.

If you do give your dog treats or snacks, stick to low-calorie options and very small portions - no larger than your thumbnail 1-2 times daily. Also incorporate this treat as a reward during training or physical exercise. Your dog will simply be happy that you are giving them attention and affection, even if it is less food.

Tip #4: Begging Behavior

Don't give into the begging! This is one of the reasons that pet diet plans fail. When you cut out the snacks and reduce the amount of food that they are eating - sometimes they will beg for more. If you give in to this annoying habit, you are actually positively reinforcing the behavior - making them more likely to beg in the future!

Tip #5: No Table Food

If your dog eats the same way that you do, this can be the cause of their obesity. Many dogs don't eat commercial dog food and can suffer the ill effects of a high calorie 'human' diet. To remedy this, cut back on the table food very gradually, as going 'cold turkey' can cause annoying begging behavior. If your dog will only eat roast beef and boiled rice, mix it in with a high-quality canned dog food. As your dog gets used to the new textures and flavors, slowly phase out the 'human food.'

Eating a balanced diet will do wonders not only for the waistline but for their overall health as well. These tips should set you and your pudgy pooch up for dieting success. Always remember to discuss weight loss plans with your pet's veterinarian. 'Crash diets' and suddenly reducing calories can be stressful for you and your pet. Remember: slow and steady wins the race.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Practical-Tips-to-Help-Your-Overweight-Dog!&id=9199085

Controlling Dog Obesity

Many people love and cherish their dogs, and we all know that dogs love to eat. It is common for dog owners to reward their dog with treats in the form of food. This is the main reason most canines today are considered to be overweight. An overweight dog can be defined as a dog whose weight is 15% higher than what is considered optimal for that specific breed's weight. If you look around at people's dogs today, you will not be surprised to find out that most of them are probably obese.

Canines never seem to get tired of eating. If you don't take control of what your dog consumes and the intervals of his or her meals, you could unknowingly cause him several illnesses such as diarrhea, blotting, constipation, and even obesity. One of the main reasons why most canine are obese is because the owners allow their dogs to have free feeding. However, what many people do not

realize is that when a dog always has food at his or her disposal, it can be a detrimental to him or her. Controlling when and what your dog eats will help you keep him healthy and free from obesity.

The food that you give your dog should not be necessarily dictated by his or her breed but his or her age, the activity he or she indulges in and health. Only give your dog an occasional bit of table scraps, and never directly from the table. If you feed him or her from the table, he or she may develop a habit of begging while you are eating, and it will eventually result in obesity.

Nutrition is a very important aspect of your dog's general physical health. Without the right foods, it can easily become obese or even worse, fall ill. The best quality food that you choose should provide your pet with a glossy coat, good energy, and a good quality of health. Finding a quality food for your dog's maintenance is the best choice.

Dogs need plenty of exercises to remain healthy. Give your dog plenty of exercises. They have a natural desire to use up energy by playing and running around. Playful exercise is good for your dog's body as well as the mind. Avoid circumstances where you have to keep your dog locked up all day since you will make him or her unsocial, obese and miserable. Allowing your dog to run around so as to provide him or her with exercise and entertainment that plays a major role in keeping the dog's body healthy.

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