Is Your Dog Overweight?

If you have ever worried about whether your dog may be eating too many treats or not getting enough exercise, you are not alone. It can sometimes be difficult to determine whether your pet has simply been eating a little too much or if their health is actually at risk. In fact, several dog owners only realize their pet is overweight after a trip to the vet or when another health related conditions arises. Luckily though, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to determine if your pet’s weight is healthy and several things you can do to get them back on track towards an active
lifestyle if you need to.

Take a look at your dog’s body shape.

If you do not have access to a scale, taking a close look at your dog’s body shape is an easy way to determine if they are at a healthy weight. If your dog’s waist is sagging or swinging, this is often a sign that he or she is overweight. Conversely, a defined waist towards the rear is typically an indication of a fit dog.

Additionally, assessing the prominence of your pet’s ribs is another good indicator as to whether they are carrying additional fat. If you can feel their ribs by pressing gently, it is likely that your dog is at a healthy weight. However if your pet’s ribs are difficult to feel, it is possible that this is because they are being covered by excess weight.

Of course, the best way to determine if your dog is overweight is by having a check-up with their veterinarian. A vet will assess whether or not your pet’s weight is healthy based on their size and breed, which are also other important factors in determining what a healthy weight looks like for your dog.

Pay close attention to your dog’s behaviour.

When you eat terribly and miss too many workouts, chances are you do not feel the greatest. Doing small tasks around the house can feel laborious, and lethargy can easily creep in throughout your day. Think of your dog’s health similarly to your own, and assess how he or she is behaving.

Inactive dogs typically spend a significant amount of time sleeping, exhibit trouble while walking, and of course, eat excessively. If you notice any of these patterns in your pet, they are also signs that he or she may be overweight.

Keep your dog active.

It goes without saying that keeping your dog active is a vital part of ensuring they maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.

You do not have to take your dog on huge hikes or marathons to help them get fit either. Getting into a routine of a morning and/or evening walk is a great way to help your pet’s health, and you’ll notice that they will look forward to this time with you. What’s more, there are also many easy ways to get your dog moving throughout the day, even while they are indoors. Make time to exercise your dog at least once a day, and you’ll quickly see the benefits of a healthier, happier pet.

Limit treats and avoid feeding your dog any table food.

If your pet tends to eat several treats throughout the day or table food at mealtime, consider limiting this and sticking to a vet-recommended, clean dog food instead.

Excessive calorie intake is a sure way to make your dog obese, and it is easy to sometimes overlook the amount of food or goodies we feed our pets. Cutting back on this will have a significant impact on your dog’s weight, and will contribute to them leading a healthier lifestyle.

Customize your dog’s diet and optimize their intake of healthy food & vitamins.

With the help of your veterinarian, customizing your dog’s diet and food plan is the perfect compliment to keeping them active and fighting obesity.

Factors like your dog’s age, breed, and size can help you and your vet determine which food and portions are best for your pet. Additionally, what type of diet your dog has will have a real impact on whether he or she is getting the vitamins and nutrients they need to maintain a healthy weight.

Feeding your pet a multivitamin dog chew like Pet Nutrients is an easy to ensure they are getting all of the clean nutrition they need for a healthy digestive system, improved energy levels, and increased mobility. In conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise routine, your pet’s weight will improve as well as their overall health.

Be consistent with your pet’s new lifestyle.

Just like humans, dogs may need some time to transition into a new healthier lifestyle. Your pet may not love getting less treats and eating different dog food right away, however this adjustment period is temporary.

Being consistent with your dog’s healthy food and exercise routine is key to ensuring their weight stays healthy in the long run and feeding them a multivitamin dog chew like Pet Nutrients can greatly support these goals.