As with people, nutrition and exercise are critical to the long-term health and happiness of your dog. He relies upon you to control his weight, provide the foods he needs, and give him an outlet through which to exercise. These are the factors that can prevent him from suffering obesity. They will help him remain healthier and live longer than otherwise.
This article will offer several useful tips for making sure your dog receives proper nutrition and plenty of exercise. We'll begin by explaining how to identify the telltale signs of obesity and the steps you can take to reduce or prevent it.
Attention To Weight Control
Take a look at your pooch from the side and top. When looking at him from the side, you should notice his abdomen tapering in from his ribcage. When viewing him from above, there should be a slight taper with no visible bloating. Next, place your hand on his midsection. You should be able to feel the outline of his ribcage. These are signs that his weight is under control.
Chewing on a Bully Stick - Healthy Dog Treat
If you cannot identify visible tapering in his abdomen or feel his ribs when petting him, he is likely overweight or obese. If this is the case, he is vulnerable to diabetes, heart problems, and joint-related issues.
There are several steps you can take to control your canine's weight. First, review the ingredients in the foods you're providing for him. Some commercial brands offer fewer nutrients than others. An alternative is to give him less commercial food and more vegetables. The vegetables contain fiber, which will make him feel full more quickly.
Second, replace fatty treats with healthy dog treats. For example, stop providing your pooch cookies; instead, give him small pieces of chicken, cheese or bully sticks.
Third, feed him two or three times each day. A lot of owners provide a single meal for their dogs. That trains their canines to gorge themselves in order to avoid becoming hungry while waiting for the next day's meal.
Fourth, take your dog for two or three walks each day. This provides valuable exercise for him while giving him the opportunity to explore the neighborhood. In fact, you can even use walks as treats (instead of food).
Lastly, if you're trying to help your pooch lose weight, do so gradually. Rather than putting him on a crash diet and forcing him to skip meals, give him smaller portions during the day. A 15% reduction in volume will help him slowly shed excess pounds. If you're giving him three or four meals throughout the day, he may not even notice.
Nutrition and physical activity are critical ingredients for maintaining your dog's health. By making sure he receives the right foods and has an outlet for regular exercise, you'll keep him healthy and trim. That will help him avoid developing debilitating health issues that can have a long-term impact on his life. Given the loyalty and companionship he offers, you'll both reap the benefits.
