How to Make Your Dog Lose Weight

Play with your dog to help with losing weight.

Health problems such as diabetes, liver problems and joint issues, are increased when a dog is overweight. Certain dogs such as Labrador retrievers, pugs and older dogs are more predisposed to obesity. A dog is overweight if you cannot feel the backbone and palpitate the ribs. You should see a waist between the ribcage and hips. The key to making a dog lose weight is to strictly monitor food intake and provide an exercise routine.

Instructions

1. Feed your dog high-quality food with essential nutrients which includes at least 20 percent protein, fats and fiber. Consider wet food for weight loss; it contains more water which gives the feeling of fullness. Talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate calorie intake for your dog and light formulas. Introduce a new food slowly to avoid stomach upset.

2. Exercise your dog daily for at least 30 minutes. Regular exercise burns calories, reduces appetite, changes body composition and increases metabolic rate. Choose exercises that increase heart rate such as running, fetching and swimming.

3. Give fewer treats to your dog and look for healthier versions such as low-calorie carrots or apples. Consider rewarding your pet with praise and play instead of food. Do not feed table scraps to your dog; it promotes weight gain. Remove pets from the room during mealtime to resist the temptation to feed scraps.

4. Schedule meals for your dog each day and do not free-feed with self-feeders or by leaving food in the bowl all day. By scheduling one to two meals per day or smaller more frequent meals, your dog will burn calories in between meals and lose weight. If possible, also schedule treat times, which teaches your dog appropriate begging times and reduces the temptation to give treats.

5. Take you dog to the veterinarian if all weight loss efforts have failed. Underlying medical issues such as a thyroid problem and certain medications such as prednisone may make it difficult for a dog to lose weight. Your veterinarian may run blood tests, take x-rays or change medications to determine the reasons for obesity.

References

• ASPCA: Overweight Dogs
• Vet Info: Making a Fat Dog Fit: 5 Tips for Weight Loss
• Fetchdog: Dogs and Weight Gain