Does your canine companion carry a few extra pounds, and are you searching for ways to assist them in shedding weight safely? You're certainly not alone in this endeavor. Over half of the dogs in America are overweight, at approximately 56%. We understand the difficulty of resisting your dog's adorable demeanor, especially when they turn on the charm to earn a treat.
However, it's important to recognize that excessive weight in pets can result in severe health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Feeling concerned? Continue reading for the most effective methods on how to help a dog lose weight and regain their optimal shape.
Understanding Dog Obesity
Obesity in dogs results from an accumulation of surplus body fat. Dogs exceeding 30 percent of their recommended weight are typically classified as obese. Veterinarians employ body condition assessments, akin to BMI measurements in humans, as well as breed-specific guidelines to establish a dog's ideal weight.
The presence of excessive fat in dogs is not merely an aesthetic concern; obesity carries significant health implications. In fact, it is arguably the most formidable health hazard that dogs contend with. We now understand that obesity is a condition driven by inflammation and hormonal imbalances, and it is associated with a multitude of ailments in dogs, including osteoarthritis, cancer, kidney issues, urinary tract complications, hypothyroidism, diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, and liver disorders.
The encouraging news is that by implementing appropriate dietary choices, exercise routines, and weight control measures, you can substantially diminish the risk of these maladies in your dog and promote a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life for your furry companion.
Is your Dog Chonky?
Utilizing a Body Condition Score (BCS) is a valuable method for assessing and monitoring your dog's weight effectively. Depending on the chosen scoring system, you will rate your dog's physique on a scale ranging from 1 to 5 or 1 to 9. If your dog's score exceeds the midpoint of the scale, it signifies that they are carrying excess weight and should aim to shed some pounds.
According to Dr. Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian at Animal Hospital of West Monroe, there are several indicators that suggest your dog is likely overweight, including:
- Struggling with mobility.
- Displaying labored breathing.
- Sporting a distended, round abdomen.
“In my practice, approximately 75% of the dogs visiting my clinic are technically overweight,” Ochoa notes. “While the degree of obesity varies, most pets can benefit from shedding a few pounds to attain their ideal body weight.”
What Leads to Obesity?
Numerous factors can contribute to canine obesity. Dr. Ochoa highlights the following as the most prevalent:
Excessive feeding. Numerous dog owners opt for free-feeding their dogs, a practice that can rapidly lead to weight gain in dogs. Dr. Ochoa advises measuring your dog's food and providing the correct portion for each individual dog.
Excessive treat consumption. 'tis important to remember that treats also contribute calories and can lead to weight gain in your dog. When giving treats, opt for those with lower calorie content and avoid overfeeding them each day.
Specific medical conditions. There are certain medical conditions that can hinder your dog's ability to sustain a healthy weight, irrespective of their diet or physical activity. Conditions like Cushing's disease and hypothyroidism (characterized by inadequate thyroid hormone production) are examples of such conditions.
Inadequate physical activity. Insufficient exercise for your dog can result in weight gain. It's advisable to ensure your dog gets at least a brief daily walk or outdoor playtime for them to run and engage in physical activity.
Specific risk factors can heighten the likelihood of a dog becoming overweight. It's crucial to take note if your dog exhibits any of the following risk factors:
- Age. As a dog ages, their risk of becoming overweight rises.
- Genes. Genetic factors alone can predispose a dog to obesity.
- Breed. Certain breeds possess lower energy requirements compared to others, resulting in their bodies storing surplus calories as fat rather than expending them through physical activity.
- Sex. Obesity is more prevalent in female dogs, and spaying increases the likelihood of obesity in females.
Medical Issues Linked to Canine Obesity
Dogs carrying excess weight face an elevated risk of developing a range of potential health complications. These problems may encompass:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Skin infections
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Breathing difficulties
- High blood pressure
Obesity doesn't just impact your dog's life quality; it might also reduce their lifespan. A study revealed that overweight dogs could potentially live up to three years less than their leaner, healthier counterparts.
Ways on How to Help a Dog Lose Weight
If your dog resembles a Bologna sausage, it's time to address their weight!
Dogs often face difficulties when it comes to shedding pounds, as they rely on us for assistance. Given a choice, many dogs would indulge in food without restraint.
Follow these guidelines to assist your dog in achieving better weight management or shedding a few pounds to reach their ideal weight.
1. Alter your Perspective on Food
Obesity has become a global epidemic among humans, with multifaceted and intricate causes. Unfortunately, as our canine companions assume an increasingly prominent role in our daily lives, they too seem to be following a similar path.
The intertwined lives of dog owners and their pets mean that when it comes to this issue, an owner's own relationship with food often influences how they approach their dog's nutrition.
Enhancing your connection with food will heighten your awareness of what and how much you're feeding your dog, ultimately benefiting both of you. Embarking on this journey alongside your dog can serve as a constructive means to hold yourself accountable and establish healthier habits.
2. Adhere to the Recommended Feeding Instructions
The temptation to exceed the recommended portion size indicated on your dog's food bag is quite common. Thoughts like “How could they possibly thrive on so little?” often lead us to rationalize overfeeding our dogs.
The most precise method for determining the appropriate portion size for your dog involves investing in a kitchen scale/gram scale. This is especially crucial for small dogs, where even a few extra grams daily can accumulate over time.
Another essential aspect is accurately knowing your dog's weight, which enables you to adhere to the food instructions accurately. You can easily achieve this by weighing yourself while holding your dog and then subtracting your own weight.
It's important to note that most portion recommendations on food bags are typically stated as the daily amount, not per meal. So, if your dog has three meals a day, remember to divide the daily recommendation by three for each meal. If you're uncertain, the bag will specify whether the portion size is per meal or per day.
While every dog has distinct metabolic needs, adjusting your dog's recommended portion should be approached with caution. When deviating from established guidelines, it's advisable to regularly monitor your dog's body condition score. Consulting your veterinarian is also a wise decision, as altering your dog's diet could lead to potential nutrient imbalances over time, and it might be more beneficial to transition your dog to a different, well-balanced diet.
3. Give Low Calorie Treats
While you're regulating your dog's calorie intake, it's still possible to maintain the special bond you share by offering treats. There's no need to eliminate treats altogether; instead, consider opting for low-calorie alternatives like raw or cooked vegetables.
A viable option is carrots. Carrots offer ample fiber, a pleasant taste, and are devoid of refined sugars. They also contribute positively to your dog's dental health. Additional alternatives include melons, frozen peas, blueberries, apples (minus the core), strawberries and cucumber.
When it comes to peanut butter, it's important to reserve it as a truly infrequent indulgence and dispense it in modest portions. This beloved treat for both dogs and humans packs a substantial 100 calories in just one tablespoon. Additionally, it's crucial to confirm that the peanut butter you choose does not contain Xylitol, which is harmful to dogs.
For a lighter and potentially superior alternative, consider plain canned pumpkin, which contains only five calories per tablespoon.
Additionally, there are commercially available dog treats with low calories and high fiber content that you can purchase. Another approach is to break treats into smaller pieces, creating the illusion of more treats for your dog.
However, it's essential to keep in mind that around 90% of a dog's daily calories should be derived from their regular dog food. If you're aiming for weight loss in your dog, it's crucial not to surpass the daily calorie limit.
4. Stimulate your Dog to Drink During Mealtime
Motivating your dog to drink during mealtime can leave them feeling satiated, reducing the likelihood of post-meal begging.
However, it's crucial to ensure your dog doesn't overeat, as water intake can cause the food to expand in their stomach, potentially leading to discomfort or even bloating.
If your dog is reluctant to drink during meals, consider adding some water to their food or substituting some of the dry kibbles with wet food.
When opting to combine dry and wet food, select a diet with specific mixing instructions to maintain a balanced diet. The increased water content in such a diet will promote a faster sense of fullness, allowing your dog to feel satisfied with less.
For picky eaters, you can make the water more enticing by adding a small amount of something flavorful, such as meat stock.
5. Quality Meals
Alongside monitoring calorie intake, another crucial aspect of managing weight or achieving weight loss is providing your dog with nutrition that consists of lower carbohydrates and whole, fresh ingredients.
High protein, Low carb
These diets have proven effective in promoting weight loss in dogs. They accomplish this by creating a calorie deficit while ensuring that protein intake remains high.
Conventional weight loss methods often result in the loss of both body fat and lean muscle mass.
In contrast, these high-protein diets are more adept at preserving your dog's lean muscle mass throughout the weight loss journey.
However, if your dog has existing liver or kidney issues, it's advisable to seek guidance from a veterinarian before implementing such a diet. The elevated protein levels in these diets could potentially place additional stress on your dog's liver and kidneys, which might be detrimental.
High protein, High fiber
This dietary approach shares a similar principle with the high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet mentioned earlier but places a significant emphasis on leveraging the satiety-inducing properties of protein and, more importantly, dietary fiber to accelerate your dog's feeling of fullness.
Furthermore, this type of diet not only extends the time your dog remains satisfied but does so without overburdening the dog's liver and kidneys with excessive protein levels.
The combination of high protein and high fiber in these diets has been demonstrated to effectively promote weight loss while maintaining an equivalent calorie count to less effective products.
Additionally, it is believed that the combination of high protein and high fiber in the diet is more conducive to weight loss than opting for a diet high in either protein or fiber alone.
6. Walk and Exercise
It's no surprise that physical activity contributes to your dog maintaining a healthy weight, as it involves the expenditure of energy.
Engaging in moderate levels of physical activity also plays a beneficial role in supporting cardiovascular health and the well-being of the musculoskeletal system.
Consider using this opportunity to exercise alongside your dog and explore innovative ways to make physical activity more enjoyable. This approach allows your dog to become your exercise companion, fostering mutual accountability during those moments when either of you feels inclined to be idle rather than active.
Embarking on a brisk 30-minute daily walk with your dog can enhance calorie expenditure, alleviate behavioral issues like begging, and enhance heart health and immune system function. Dedicate yourself to this half-hour of low-impact cardio alongside your dog, regardless of the weather. It will be beneficial for both of you!
Moreover, diversify your perspective on exercise; it doesn't solely entail long walks or going for runs. Think outside the box! Activities like playtime, such as fetching a ball, swimming or attempting agility obstacles, can offer an enjoyable means of staying active while spending quality time together.
7. Meals at Predetermined Times
Establishing set feeding times for your dog can aid in weight loss by establishing a consistent routine. Implementing distinct “meal times” enables your dog to adjust their eating habits behaviorally. Consequently, this can lead to reduced begging and fewer instances throughout the day when your dog may try to coax you into overfeeding them.
Mix Veggies With Kibble
Is your dog still exhibiting signs of hunger even after finishing their meal? If you've noticed that your dog appears to be unsatisfied due to the diminishing amount of kibble in the bowl, We suggest incorporating high-fiber vegetables to promote a sense of fullness without adding extra calories. Our preferred choice for this purpose is frozen green beans, as they are generally well-received by most dogs for their crispy texture and mildly sweet taste.
8. Small Frequent Feedings
If your dog experiences difficulty in managing their hunger at specific times of the day, consider splitting their daily food portion into multiple meals. This approach ensures your dog receives the same total amount of food while providing them with regular breaks in their dietary schedule.
This strategy is particularly valuable for larger dogs, as they typically have substantial meal portions, which can pose certain challenges. Feeding a large dog a single substantial meal each day may lead to abdominal discomfort and, in some cases, even bloat. Bloat can result in emergencies like Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus.
9. Make Sure Not to Leave the Food Out
Leaving your dog's food accessible for them to eat at their own pace is not the best practice, particularly if you're the type of owner who always ensures their food bowl is constantly filled.
This feeding approach is frequently linked to unwanted weight gain, as it can be challenging to monitor your dog's food intake. Therefore, we recommend removing the food bowl after mealtime to prevent overeating.
10. Encourage Slow Eating
Consuming food at a more measured and conscious pace allows your body to better gauge the quantity of food it's taking in. This principle also holds true for dogs.
As you may have observed, dogs tend to be opportunistic eaters, swiftly devouring anything that lands on the floor. This hasty eating style extends to their regular meals. There are various strategies to help your dog eat more slowly.
One effective approach involves turning mealtime into a playful activity by placing your dog's food into a specialized food-dispensing toy. Not only does this slow down your dog's eating, but it also engages their cognitive faculties.
A straightforward and cost-effective method is spreading your dog's food on the ground. This encourages your dog to take their time and search for their food. However, exercise caution when using this method on surfaces with small objects or stones that could be mistaken for food and inadvertently ingested by your dog.
Another option is to employ a slow feeding bowl, available in various shapes and sizes, specifically designed to make it challenging for your dog to consume their food rapidly.
11. Rule Out Medical Conditions
Merely conducting periodic weigh-ins for your dog will not provide an adequate gauge of fat reduction. This is due to the fact that muscle is denser than fat, which means that even with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, positive changes in your dog's body may not be evident on the scales.
An integral aspect of any dog weight loss regimen is to consistently assess your dog's body condition. Merely adhering to a low-calorie diet or implementing the aforementioned recommendations is insufficient if you do not commit to monitoring your dog's physical state.
If you've set and adhered to calorie restrictions and your efforts to assist your dog in shedding excess weight are proving unsuccessful, it may be prudent to consult with a veterinarian to explore the possibility of an underlying medical issue.
Weight gain and reduced energy levels can serve as indicators of conditions such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's Syndrome. The latter, known as hyperadrenocorticism, is more common in older dogs and can also manifest with symptoms like increased urination, hair loss, and muscle weakness.
12. Monitor and Track Progress
In addition to monitoring your dog's physical condition, it's a beneficial practice to schedule monthly weigh-ins at your veterinarian's clinic. Many veterinarians are more than willing to allow you to bring your dog in for a complimentary weight check, and they are also enthusiastic about providing plenty of support and encouragement throughout the weight loss journey.
They take great pleasure in witnessing the pounds come off and wholeheartedly cheering you on in this endeavor! This collaborative effort with your veterinarian can be a valuable aspect of your dog's weight management plan, ensuring that progress is tracked effectively and offering both you and your dog the motivation to continue making healthy choices.
Final Say
We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but if you're among those pet owners who can't resist your dog's pleading eyes when food is present, or if you frequently give in to your dog's requests for extra food despite intending to stick to recommended portions, you may unintentionally be harming your dog by being overly indulgent.
As a responsible owner, it's your duty to oversee your dog's well-being, and sometimes, you need to establish firm boundaries both for your dog and yourself to do this correctly.
It's crucial to ensure that your dog doesn't lose weight too rapidly, as excessive weight loss can be detrimental to their health. We hope that the aforementioned tips will aid you in managing your dog's weight effectively or set you on the right course to address your dog's weight concerns.
If you're uncertain about whether your dog is overweight or if you're encountering challenges in managing your dog's weight, we recommend consulting your veterinarian for guidance and assistance.
