Certain dog breeds tend towards obesity more than other breeds. Animals that have been neutered or spayed are more prone to become obese not due to the surgery but rather due to the lower levels of exercise which is usual in pets that have been sterilized. Elderly dogs may become fat because as in humans, their metabolic rate decreases as they get older.
Extra weight is often carried on the hips as well as shoulders of overweight dogs. If you examine your dog these areas will feel rather fleshy should he be overweight.
A diagnosis of obesity may be ascertained by weighing your dog or assessing the composition of its body as well as the condition of the body. This can be done by your veterinarian who will examine your dog, feeling its ribs, head, lumbar region and tail. The results of the examination are then measured against the breed standard.
All dogs must have a set feeding time as well as a routine that you must stick to. Should you be trying to get your dog to lose excess weight, letting them eat treats, even dental chews that are healthy, will cause an increase in the amount of calories consumed. After you have an organised routine set-up, to get the optimal results regarding your dog’s weight loss, you should feed him the finest food for weight loss management available.
When on a visit to your veterinarian, ask for their advice regarding weight loss as they might offer information you may not have thought of. Visiting your vet will not only assist you to know the ideal weight of your dog, but a check-up will also eliminate any medical conditions that could be the cause of the extra weight or obesity.
It is important that a dog has an examination at the vet at least every second month as this allows your veterinarian to be familiar with previous health conditions as well as the likes and dislikes of your dog. A vet is the very best place to receive information regarding ways to handle the weight problem of your dog. Discuss with your veterinarian a plan for formulating a diet and exercise regimen that will best suit your dog.
It is unnecessary for your dog to experience hunger during his weight loss program as you should feed him food that is nutritionally wholesome for dogs that are overweight or obese. There are top dog food brands offering formulas with a good ratio of fat, fiber and protein for adult dog weight control. This food will ensure that your dog feels full. After reaching his goal weight, you can switch over to a maintenance food that will assist him to keep the weight under control.
Obesity can cause diabetes in pets and affects one in every two-hundred dogs and one in every four-hundred cats. Studies have shown that sixty-one per cent of dogs that are obese have a bad tolerance of glucose and insulin concentrations that are also high in their blood. These signs indicate that they are pre-diabetic and occur quite some time before other signs of diabetes are found, such as an increased thirst.
