Posts Tagged ‘Couch Potato’
When we think of dogs we tend to think of agile creatures that love to exercise and play, have speed and power, and are sleek or cuddly. However, just like humans and other animals, dogs are creatures that can be prone to weight problems, some breeds far more than others.
Most dogs love their food and treats, and although most love to exercise and play there are also those that are quite happy to toast their paws in front of the fire and play the “couch potato” whenever given the chance. And, of course, the combination of lack of exercise and over-feeding can lead to a very fat little dog.
Avoiding obesity in your dog
Some dogs can be far more susceptible than others to weight gain, and for dogs this can result in a range of associated health problems. Weight gain can not only make your dog miserable, but reduce his quality of life, and even reduce his lifespan.
This is why it is important for responsible owners to monitor and maintain a healthy weight for their dogs, and in the event of weight gain to take action in order to try and get their weight back on track.
We all love to give our dogs treats to show them how much we care, but often this is doing more damage than good. Just like with children, the odd treat is fine, but regular treats coupled with large portions of food can quickly lead to excess weight.
Another factor that can affect your dog’s weight is of course the level of exercise that he receives. Believe it or not, there are some dogs that actually have to be persuaded to go for their walks. In some cases, other health problems such as undiagnosed thyroid problems can affect your dog’s weight and cause your dog to get fat.
If you have a dog that is happy never to step out of the house, you shouldn’t just shrug and thank your lucky stars that you don’t have the extra duty of having to take him out each day. Instead, you need to make a concerted effort to ensure that he does get regular exercise, no matter how gentle. If your dog is very overweight you should get advice from your vet to find out why he has gained weight, and how you can get the situation under control.
A number of health problems can affect fat dogs, which is why it is important to keep your dog’s weight under control. Some of the weight related health problems that can affect your pet include heart, lung, liver, kidney, and joint problems, amongst others. Some of the breeds that are prone to weight gain because of genetics include Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Labrador Retrievers, and Beagles.
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Don’t forget to check out these articles on dog food and diet… Rebecca writes on puppy and dog concerns here.
Reduce Dog Obesity
An overweight dog does not look healthy, and this only occurs because of overfeeding, not because they choose this lifestyle. It is only through overfeeding that we make this happen to our pets.
DISEASES CAUSED BY DOG OBESITY
If you want to learn about weight loss for dogs, the first thing you should do is consult your vet and get his approval and advice. That said and done, there are many reasons and tips to help you achieve the goal of a healthy pet.
Obesity in our pets is ultimately our responsibility. After all we are in control of their nutrition. It has become an epidemic that is associated with our own “couch potato” lifestyle. There are many problems that can be caused by obesity in our dogs which can be prevented if they are fed an all natural healthy organic diet. Some of these ailments (which mimic our own problems with over indulgence) include:
JOINT AND WALKING DIFFICULTIES – this is due to added weight and stress put on joints, bones, and muscles. This can cause back problems, hip dysplasia, lethargy, and aggravation of arthritis.
HEART AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES – Obesity causes extra stress on the heart and lungs, making them tork harder than a dog that is physically fit.
DIABETES – This is more prevalent in obese pets.
LIVER DISEASE – This is also associated with obese pets.
SKIN PROBLEMS – Being fat causes difficulty in your pet’s grooming ability. Just as overweight humans have trouble reaching their feet to tie their shoes when a fat belly is in the way, a dog can’t reach all areas that need self cleaning. Dirt and bacteria can become embedded in fat rolls and cause infections.
STOMACH PROBLEMS – There is a painful and life threatening condition, called pancreatitis, which is seen more and more in obese pets.
Just as the above diseases mimic our own obesity related problems, they are curable or preventable if you keep your dog healthy, active and fed nutrionally premium dog food.
WEIGHT LOSS TIPS FOR DOGS
Putting your pet on a fat reducing diet and increasing exercise, as prescribed by your vet, is the best way to show your love to your pet. There are many excellent healthy organic dog foods available that are high in protein and low in fat. Check the labels carefully and make sure you buy the best organic dog food you can afford, with the highest amount of organic ingredients and low fat content.
Elimination of bad high calorie treats and table scraps is the easiest weight loss for dogs tip there is. Extra calories from treats pile up quickly. Choosing the wrong type of high fat, high calorie treat for your dog is not a good practice, so be aware of the difference between good and bad treats. Choose healthy!
TREATS
At 40 kcals is KARMA ORGANIC DOG TREATS
Bonz treats for small dogs 70 kcals
Milk Bone Dog Biscuit – one large 115 kcals
Fresh Carrot – baby size 3 kcals
Green Beans – 1 cup canned (this in my girls favorite) 25 kcals
Air popped popcorn (1/2 ounce) 54 kcals
1 slice Pizza Hut Cheese Pizza (NOT RECOMMENDED) 259 kcals
20 Dorito brand chips (NOT RECOMMENDED) 260 kcals
At 17 kcals is: MOTHER NATURE NATURAL DOG BISCUITS
At 45 kcals is: SOLID GOLD NATUR-BONE BISCUITS
At 50 kcals is: INNOVA HEALTH BARS – SMALL SIZE
Oreo Cookies – 2 (NOT RECOMMENDED) 130 kcals
McDonalds Quarter Pounder with cheese (YUCK!) 525 kcals
A kcal is a kilo calorie per unit or calorie as we call it in every day terms.
(A 20 pound dog needs 690 kcals daily for optimum health.) A few Doritos here, a Oreo cookie there and sharing a Quarter Pounder will equal your dogs total calorie need for a whole day. This on top of his regular dinner is simply unhealthy and easy to change.
Sometimes, just eliminating the unhealthy treats and going on a daily walk is all that is necessary is helping your pet become fit and energetic again.
Remember, we speak for our pets, and taking proper care and giving them the best that we can is what makes our bond with animals so special.
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