Managing Obesity Problems in Dogs

Managing dog obesity is really a big deal. I personally consider dog obesity management as something that every dog owner should be concerned about, though it pretty tough for newbies. Reports have shown that an estimated volume of over 50% of dogs in the US, Canada and the UK and a few other parts of the globe are obese and meet premature death due to heart attacks and/or organ failure. Most obese dogs get exposed to the risk of metabolic disorders, joint ailments, decreased immunity and increased chances of cancer.


Here are just a main couple of reasons for obesity problems in dogs:

Overfeeding: Most dog owners - especially the new ones develop a wrong idea that good feeding = more feeding. Good feeding management primarily involves identifying the basic requirement for your dog's optimum growth, which is in no way related to overfeeding. It is essential to limit your dog's feedings to regular specific times everyday. It's important that you stress on maintaining your dog's healthy digestive system.

Scanty Exercise: Scanty exercise is again another major reason for the obesity problem in dogs. Adequate and correct volume of exercise is of utmost significance. We have moved away from using our dogs to work with us in fields. Our Shepherds, Retrievers, Dobbies, Roties, Danes etc. have found their space on our drawing room carpet. They get limited scope to work and do not burn calories to the desired extent. It is therefore more than just important to take them outdoor on a regular basis and make to run or walk long.

Managing the risk of dog obesity

Risk of obesity in dogs can easily be managed through exercising restraints in certain areas. One major mistake that I made in the past with my dogs was that I had unknowingly encouraged my dogs begging habit. I should have strongly exercise restraint in this area.

Limit treats! That's one of the formulas. Draw a strict schedule for feeding. Stop offering him table scraps from your plate. Feed him before your lunch and dinner and keep him away when its your turn.

Regular Exercise - I repeat! This is must and cannot be give an after-thought. While over exercising may turn out to be harmful for your dog, under exercising is equally dangerous. Swimming is a great option especially for large dogs. Long walk is another great exercise for dogs - irrespective of breed. All you need is to know much exercise is correct for your dog. Obviously and German Shepherd Dog or an English Mastiff should have a longer span of walk than a Chihuahua.

Correct nutritional support is the top priority! By this I mean Quality; NOT Quantity. To put it more specifically - I should say CORRECT Quality and Quantity both. Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA produce a chemical called Eicosanoids in the dog's body that controls obesity. Deficiency in Omega-3 fatty acids - EPA and DHA is considered as another reason for dog obesity. Fish oil is the best source of these Omega-3 fatty acids.

Managing obesity in dogs also involves certain things more critical than these and cannot controlled at home. Certain medical conditions contribute highly to obesity in dogs. Some of these conditions includes but not restricted to Pituitary Disorders, Hypothyrodism, Cushings Disease,  Cancer in Pancreas etc. These health disorders cannot be established until your carry on medical tests according to the vets.