Guide your dog to a healthier weight and improve their overall well-being.
An overweight dog faces serious health risks, including heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Taking action now can make all the difference in extending your dog’s life. Here are 10 critical steps to help your dog lose weight safely and effectively.
1. Consult Your Veterinarian
Before starting any weight loss plan for your dog, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s overall health, determine how much weight they need to lose, and recommend a safe plan. Your vet may also rule out any underlying health issues that could contribute to weight gain, such as hypothyroidism.
2. Measure Portions Accurately, You Are Overfeeding
One of the biggest causes of weight gain in dogs is overfeeding. Use a measuring cup to ensure you’re giving your dog the appropriate amount of food for their size, breed, and activity level. Most dog food packaging includes portion recommendations, but your vet may suggest adjusting these based on your dog’s weight loss goals.
3. Switch to a Low-Calorie, High-Protein Diet to Avoid Fat Gain
If your dog is overweight, switching to a low-calorie, high-protein diet can help. Look for foods labeled specifically for weight management, which often contain fewer calories and more fiber to help your dog feel full longer. Avoid foods that are high in fat or carbohydrates.
4. Cut Out the Extra Treats to Avoid Hidden Calories
While it’s tempting to spoil your dog with treats, these extras can add up quickly in terms of calories. Instead of high-calorie dog biscuits, opt for healthy alternatives like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or even small pieces of apple (just avoid the seeds!). You can also break larger treats into smaller pieces to reduce calorie intake without your dog feeling deprived.
5. Increase Physical Activity or Risk Your Dog’s Weight Spiraling Out of Control
Exercise is key to weight loss, so make sure your dog is getting plenty of physical activity every day. Start with moderate activities like daily walks or playtime in the yard, and gradually increase the duration and intensity. If your dog enjoys fetching, running, or swimming, incorporate these activities into their routine for more variety.
6. Incorporate Mental Stimulation
Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise in keeping your dog healthy. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or games that challenge your dog’s mind can keep them engaged and help them burn off some extra energy, which can assist in weight loss.
7. Schedule Regular Feeding Times
Free feeding—leaving food out all day—can lead to overeating and weight gain. Stick to a regular feeding schedule, providing meals at specific times each day. This helps regulate your dog’s metabolism and prevents unnecessary snacking.
8. Track Progress with Regular Weigh-ins
Just as you would with your own weight loss journey, it’s important to track your dog’s progress. Weigh your dog regularly—about every 2–4 weeks—and keep a log of their weight. Seeing the changes can help motivate you to stay consistent with their diet and exercise plan.
9. Be Mindful of Food Labeling and Ingredients
Not all dog foods are created equal, even if they’re labeled as healthy. Look at the ingredients list on your dog’s food and avoid products that contain high amounts of fillers like corn, soy, or artificial preservatives. Instead, choose high-quality dog foods made with real meat, vegetables, and whole grains.
10. Be Patient and Consistent
Weight loss takes time, so it’s important to be patient. Dogs can safely lose about 1–2% of their body weight per week, so the process may take several months depending on how much weight your dog needs to lose. Stay consistent with their feeding, exercise, and weigh-in routine, and celebrate small victories along the way!