Overweight Dogs: Dietary Kibble, Alleva Behavior

A dog is considered obese if it weighs more than 20% above its ideal weight, and its life expectancy is reduced by an average of two years. However, the right food and good habits can help you keep your pet’s weight under control.

Unfortunately, canine obesity is a more common problem than people realize and is all too often underestimated. An obese dog is at risk for all sorts of health conditions and numerous health risks. On average, obese dogs live two years less than healthy dogs. That is why it is important to take early action with a proper diet. There are food lines specifically designed to help control weight and maintain a healthy weight.

What are the main causes of obesity in dogs?

In most cases, this is due to poor eating habits. A dog is considered obese if it exceeds its ideal weight by more than 20%. Below that, it is considered overweight. However, you should always be mindful of what you feed your dog. Dogs are generally very greedy animals and tend to eat everything their owners give them and, above all, ask for more. This doesn’t necessarily mean the dog is hungry. Often, it simply wants to get your attention to receive a pat or a few extra minutes of playtime with you.

Feed your dog the right kibble and make sure he gets plenty of exercise

It is therefore a good idea to follow the instructions on the dog food packaging. Generally, the daily food portion is listed in grams based on your dog’s weight. It is essential not to overfeed your dog, but above all to avoid giving him food intended for human consumption. Even if he seems to enjoy it and makes it clear that he wants it, that doesn’t mean it’s good for him—quite the opposite. Very often, such food is high in fat and sugar. It is a proven cause of obesity. We know it’s difficult, but you mustn’t give in to your dog’s demands because by resisting, you’re doing it for his own good. Another important factor in keeping your dog in shape is physical exercise. Dogs are very active animals and need to move to stay in shape. If you can’t take them for walks often, try to keep them active through physical activities, such as playing with them. Throw toys for them and have them fetch them, or hide them in different corners of the house and let them search for them.

Tips for Managing a Dog's Weight

As we’ve seen earlier, there are specific lines of dog food designed specifically to address weight issues. These are balanced kibbles that provide your dog with all the necessary nutrients. They help maintain a low-calorie intake to control your dog’s weight and also help him lose body fat. Often, it’s not easy to get your dog used to a different diet, which is why it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian about the best approach before introducing a new type of food like this. It’s generally recommended to proceed in stages, gradually mixing the new kibble into their regular food in increasing amounts. Your dog will gradually get used to this new taste. Of course, weight-management foods come in different varieties, depending on your dog’s needs and preferences. Choose them carefully, and you’ll see that your dog will start to enjoy them and eat them with great enthusiasm in no time.

Healthy Dog Food & Behavioral Training: That’s the winning combination for beating dog obesity and regaining control of your dog’s weight!

Switching to a veterinary or weight-management diet is a good first step in combating your dog’s obesity, but it’s essential to combine this with a comprehensive approach that also includes behavioral changes.

All too often, the food bowl is filled once or twice a day and left out all day long. It’s important to restore meaning to your dog’s meals and make mealtime a ritual. You are the pack leader, and you control access to food. Mealtime should follow a certain ritual:

- Try to stick to the daily portions using a measuring cup. You can spread out your meals over the course of the day.

- At every meal, turn mealtime into a game: set the bowl down in front of your dog and ask him to wait patiently for your permission to eat. These little moments are important for restoring the meaning of mealtime and eating. It’s not only a good nutritional habit for weight control but also a time for bonding and training with your companion. And if you’re worried your dog isn’t getting enough to eat, feel free to moisten their kibble generously by adding 25% water. At the end of the meal, you can remove the bowl whether it’s empty or not, but don’t forget to always leave plenty of fresh water available.