Pets

Veterinary Advice on Canine Obesity: Practical Tips for Keeping Your Dog Fit

Like humans, dogs can gain weight, which can put their health at risk. Painful diseases of the joints and ligaments, such as arthritis, are a primary concern; however, dogs can also be at risk for many other diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. If you suspect that your pet may be overweight, you can do two simple tests at home. For the first test, place your hand very gently on your dog’s ribs. Press down slightly. If you can feel a hint of the ribs, your dog is of normal weight, if the ribs are well defined, your dog is underweight, and if he cannot feel the ribs at all or has to press down firmly to feel the ribs, he will more likely it is your dog. Have overweight. Another home test is to see the dog’s spine. If the spine is lower than the surrounding tissue, your dog may be overweight. Dogs in northern climates often experience seasonal weight gain, but this is normal and generally not a problem. Dr. Kietra Kay, DVM of Companion Animal Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, offers the following suggestions:

1. Control the dog’s daily diet. This should include everything the dog eats; chewy treats such as raw hides, dog treats, dog food, human food, and bone. Is your dog devouring cat food or receiving treats from a neighbor? Some human foods may be fine for dogs as long as you use them in moderation and avoid high fats, protein, and grapes (grapes can cause kidney toxicity). If you are concerned about your pet’s weight, you cannot easily identify what could be causing weight gain, or if you need help with a good diet, schedule an examination with your veterinarian. Keep the dog’s food diary, a daily list of what he has eaten in the last week. Once your dog is on a weight loss meal plan, it is best to weigh him on a monthly basis.

2. Tips for exercising. During winter, walk with your animal however you can. Dogs can tolerate cold better than humans; except dogs with fine fur like Staffordshire Terriers, English Bulldogs or Great Danes, etc. If you have a dog with a thin coat of fur, a dog coat, and booties, it can help him endure cold weather walks or playtime. When the weather is severe, get creative with indoor playtime and exercise. Consider going up and down the stairs. It is good for you and your dog. If you don’t have stairs or are physically disabled, find a doggie daycare that has a good indoor play area. You may want to use doggy daycare as part of your dog’s winter fitness plan. During the summer, if your dog likes other dogs, use dog parks or dog dates so your pet can have fun and burn off excess weight.

3. Don’t give in to your dog on every whim. Just like we wouldn’t give a child ice cream all the time, we must also show restraint with our dogs. It’s great to be sensitive and attentive to your pets’ needs, but if you want them to live long and healthy lives, there are times when you should ignore their pleas.

4. Please don’t take it personally. Many people are sensitive to any weight problem. If your vet expresses concern about your pet’s weight, this is not an indication that you are a bad or negligent caretaker. Instead, see it as a health problem that can be improved. One of Dr. Keitra’s clients had a small dog that was gaining weight from apple and green bean snacks. In a 150 LB person, these items would burn out quickly, but in a small dog frame, they were accumulating excess weight.

In addition to Dr. Kay’s advice, you may want to consider taking shorter but more frequent walks, checking the fat and fiber content in your dog’s food, and hiring a dog walker if your time is limited. If you have a large garage, but no fenced yard, you can leave your car (s) outside for about half an hour and play with your dog in the locked garage once or twice a day.

Like many diseases, the sooner you diagnose and start treating canine obesity, the sooner your dog will improve his health. Your vet can help you develop a healthy personalized weight loss plan for your dog.

Dr. Kietra Kay is originally from Southern Wisconsin, graduated from DVM from UW-Madison and has practiced veterinary medicine for eight years. Dr. Kietra has experience working and treating horses, however, she really enjoys working with companion animals. In the past, Dr. Kay has dedicated her practice at Companion Animal Hospital in Madison Wisconsin. She also volunteers with the Dane County Humane Association.

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