This revelation report about dog food industry is yours FREE without any string attach. Claim your FREE Dog Food Report worth $17  While It Is Still Available and Get my weekly tips & ideas ...for success in caring & training your dog. Just enter your name and valid email below for instant access:

Spam Guard: Please use an email address you check regularly so that you can receive all the information. I respect your privacy and hate spam. Your details will be strictly protected and safe. It will never be sold or shared.

First Name: Email:

Article 21

Is Your Dog Off the Weighing Scale?

Authored by: Jerry Yap

Obesity in dogs is currently the most common nutritional disorder that occurs worldwide. Studies have shown that between 24% to 34% of dogs are obese, with the numbers rising.

• Does your pet have a waist line?

• Does your pet have a large or wobbly belly?

• How easy it is to feel your pet’s ribs and spine?

If your pet does not have a discernible waist, has a large rounded belly and you are unable to feel its ribs or spine, your pet is probably obese!

Obese dogs have health implications

Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excessive amount of fats in the body. Being overweight is the prelude to obesity. Obesity in dogs is associated with significant health risks such as skin, reproductive, heart, respiratory and musculoskeletal problems (osteoarthritis, lameness, cruciate ligament ruptures), hypertension, poor immunity, diabetes mellitus, increase anaesthetic and surgical complications, heat and exercise intolerance.

What causes obesity?

Fundamentally, obesity results from the consumption of excess calories/energy than what is needed. The surplus energy is then stored primarily as fat.

Age

Obesity tends to be a problem of middle-aged dogs. As your pet ages, its total daily energy needs also decrease.

Breed/Genetic Predisposition

Labrador retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Pugs, Basset Hounds, Miniature Schnauzers, Shetland Sheepdogs and Dachshunds are most likely to be obese.

Sterilization

Increases the risk of obesity because of certain hormonal changes that occur after sterilization as well as a decrease in the metabolic rate by 20%=25%. This coupled with the fact that the animal’s activity level decreases after sterilization while their food/calorie intake remains the same. However, sterilization is encouraged among advocates who believe the benefits outweigh the disadvantages and it is up to the pet owners to maintain the weight of the sterilize pets.

Hormonal Abnormalities

Endocrine diseases like Hypothyroidism and Hyperadrenocortism may result in obesity.

Diet Palatability

 Prevention is better than cure!

Start monitoring your dog’s weight and control its diet especially after sterilization, coupled with exercise and regular vet checks.

Take your dog to veterinary examination and tests performed to rule out endocrine or metabolic disorders first before commencing treatment or a weight loss program that should involve the whole family. The basis of dog weight reduction involves reducing the calories intake and exercise. Be patient as it can take months for your dog to lose the weight.

Once sterilized, control the calorie intake by feeding the right amount in multiple small meals as advised by your vet. Special prescription diets are also available which can only be prescribed by a vet. All treats and table scraps should be eliminated. Instead, substitute these with healthier alternatives such as fruits and vegetables (but keep to 10% or less of the diet and pick food that would not upset your dog’s stomach).

If you do choose to prepare homemade dog food for your dog be certain to avoid certain foods which can be toxic and potentially fatal to your dog. These include but are not limited to avocado, raisins, grapes, and chocolate.

If you do not know how to prepare homemade dog food, don’t despair. For more healthier choice of dog food, check out http://www.Recipes4Pet.com/

Exercise is by far the most important key ingredient in any weight loss and prevention program. It not only burns excess fat but also encourages bonding between you and your pet.

Start caring for the well-being of our animal companion. An overweight dog will suffer health implications. Help them start a healthier journey now! 

Dog Food Nutrition: This article only touches the basic techniques to feed and care for your dog. For more effective dog nutrition guide, either consulted a qualified veterinarian or learn from a reputable dog food book like "Dog Food Secrets" as revealed by my dog expert friend, Andrew Lewis. Discover how you can lengthen your dog's lifespan by 134%. Is it possible? Find out more at www.Recipes4Pet.com.

Dog Training: To train your dog correctly, do a consultation with qualified dog trainer or learn from a reputable and most comprehensive step by step dog training home study course like our renown dog trainer, "Secrets to Dog Training." Discover how you too can train your dog on your own without spending a big sum of fee to hire a dog trainer or sending your dog to over crowded dog obedience classes only to learn just a few basic dog obedience tricks. You can download the videos at www.DogExpertReveal.com.

"A Healthy And Trained Dog Brings Joy To The Whole Family"

Home | Sitemap | Legal Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Contact