Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your adult dog’s well-being, especially if carrying extra pounds. Overweight dogs face more significant risks for health issues like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Here are seven effective strategies to help your dog slim down safely and improve their quality of life.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Before beginning any weight-loss plan, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying conditions, such as hypothyroidism, that could be causing weight gain. Our McAllen Pet Hospital veterinarians can assess your dog’s health, recommend a target weight, and create a tailored plan to ensure safe weight loss.
Reassess Your Dog’s Diet
Overfeeding is a common cause of weight gain in dogs. Ensure you’re feeding based on your dog’s ideal weight, not their current weight. Use a measuring cup to avoid overestimations, which can quickly add extra calories. Your vet may also suggest lower-calorie foods or portion adjustments to aid weight loss.
Boost Physical Activity
Regular exercise is crucial for weight loss. Aim for daily walks of at least 30 minutes, gradually increasing duration and intensity as your dog builds stamina. If possible, provide supervised playtime in a safe, fenced area for extra exercise, which can help shed pounds and improve your dog’s fitness.
Monitor Progress Regularly
Track your dog’s progress by weighing it regularly or using a body condition score (BCS) chart. Based on these results, adjust diet and activity as needed. Monitoring their progress over time helps ensure that the weight-loss plan is effective and keeps them motivated to stay on course.
Stick to the Plan
Consistency is key. Adhere to the feeding and exercise routine, and resist giving in to begging for treats or table scraps. Each extra bite adds up, so sticking to the plan is essential for faster, more effective weight loss.
Engage Your Dog During Mealtime
Use mealtime as a chance to burn extra calories. Puzzle toys and slow feeders encourage your dog to eat slowly and stimulate their mind, adding a bit of physical activity to their eating routine. These tools can help them feel fuller while adding a little extra exercise.
Key Takeaways
Helping your adult dog lose weight can be a game-changer for their health. Try these practical tips from our McAllen Pet Hospital:
- Set a consistent routine: Stick with scheduled feeding and exercise plans.
- Measure portions carefully: Feed based on your dog’s ideal weight, not their current weight.
- Add fun exercise: Make physical activity enjoyable with walks, playtime, or mealtime puzzles.
- Track progress: Monitor your dog’s weight and body condition regularly to stay on target.
View this post on Instagram
Expert Care with our McAllen Pet Hospital
We support every aspect of your dog’s health journey at Valley Animal Hospital. Our team offers expert weight management, preventive care, and overall well-being guidance. Contact us to schedule a consultation and ensure your furry friend stays on the path to a healthier, happier life.
