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Dog weight loss will yield many healthy benefits for the overweight dog. Studies have shown that more than 40 percent of American dogs are overweight. Typically owners are the cause of their overweight pets. Pet owners will typically over feed their pet or they will allow their animal to snack on table scraps.
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Dog Weight Loss
By Luke Blaise
Dog weight loss will yield many healthy benefits for the overweight dog. Studies have shown that more than 40 percent of American dogs are overweight. Typically owners are the cause of their overweight pets. Pet owners will typically over feed their pet or they will allow their animal to snack on table scraps.
Dogs that lose weight suddenly should be taken to the local vet for a checkup and testing. If a pet rapidly loses weight and nothing has changed in the dog's diet or exercise routine it could be a sign of a serious underlying problem. A few reasons why a pet could lose weight rapidly are: parasite, hormonal imbalances, or an undetected medical condition. Dogs that are overweight could have multiple complications, such as: increased blood pressure, hepatic lipidosis, and dystocia.
If the dog is given a clean bill of health from the veterinarian then it is time to put the dog on a healthy weight reduction program. There are several weight reduction programs available, however, it seems the most important thing an owner can do is cut back on the amount of food the dog is given. Make sure to look at what the recommended food intake for your dog, age, breed, and size, are the most important factors to keep in mind.
One noticeable sign that a dog is overweight is by running your hands over the dog's rib cage. If you are unable to feel the ribs, that is a sign that your dog is overweight. Another way to tell if a dog is overweight is by looking at the waistline. If the dog's waistline is not visible it could be a sign that the dog would benefit from losing a few pounds.
More often than not the owner has caused their dog to become overweight. Typically dogs should be exercised every day and fed dog food that is geared for the dog's size and breed. However, many owners love to reward their dogs with doggy treats or worse table scraps. Owners must remember that most dogs will continue to eat even when they are not hungry, this of course can cause an overweight dog. Dog owners must remember that their dog is not a convenient garbage disposal.
Play time equals weight loss for dogs. Owners should remember that if their dog has been inactive for a long time that they will need to start out slow and build endurance. This can be accomplished by steadily increasing activities on a weekly or bi weekly basis. Walking is always an easy way to get dogs back into a healthy routine.
Owners should watch out for warning signs that their pet is losing too much weight too fast. If your canine is shedding excessively or if the canine develops new conditions it is recommended to make a visit with your local vet.
Dog weight loss shouldn't happen overnight. When owners decide it is time to put their dog on a diet or new exercise routine they should do so with care and caution. If a dog loses weight to rapidly it could cause additional health problems.
Learn more about recommended puppy food. Stop by our site where you can find out all about the top dog foods.