Dog owners love to share things with their dogs. Activities like quiet time on the couch, relaxing walks around the neighborhood, and a fun day at the beach are all excellent to share with your pooch. However, many dogs are beginning to share a major human health problem: obesity.
Regular Veterinary Visits
Regular trips to the veterinarian are the foundation for maintaining body weight and health as a whole for your dog. According to Miracle Vet, your veterinarian will know if the weight your dog is carrying is healthy for his or her breed, age, and size. If your dog is carrying more weight than he or she should be, then your veterinarian will be able to provide feeding and exercise advice. Your veterinarian is also trained to observe the shape of your dog’s body and touch your pet in certain places to assess his or her overall condition. It is important to remember that the number on a scale is not the only indicator of healthy body weight. The complete body composition of your dog should be considered, too.
A Healthy, Balanced Diet
A balanced and nutritious diet is an important component in helping your dog maintain healthy body weight. Your dog’s meal plan should be tailored to monitor his or her specific nutritional needs. Study dog food brands until you find one that provides the nutrition to support your furry friend’s size and activity level. You should also feed your pet food that will not aggravate any food sensitivities or illnesses your dog may possess. It is okay to give your dog treats occasionally, but make sure the quality and quantity of these treats are in line with your dog’s nutritional needs. According to VitaLife, dog treats with lower calorie counts and higher amounts of animal proteins, organic ingredients, and natural sweeteners can be a fun, beneficial addition for your pooch.
Daily Activity
Exercise is as important to maintaining the health of your dog as it is to the health of humans. According to Orvis, this exercise will help your dog to burn off excess energy, as well as calories that would otherwise lead to an unhealthy weight gain. There is no need to panic. You will not have to accompany your dog on half-marathons to provide him or her with the needed daily activity. You need only to provide your dog with daily walks and a little playtime in a safe environment without restraint from a leash.
Your dog will be healthier and happier if he or she is able to maintain a healthy body weight. Helping your furry friend achieve this goal does not have to be a complicated process. The three tips above are a great place to start for dog owners concerned with the weight and health of their pooch.
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