How to prevent your dog becoming overweight

10th October 2019

Obesity can make it difficult for your dog to exercise properly and can lead to serious illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. With so many different breeds of dogs of varying sizes and builds, it can be difficult to know how much to feed your pet. Take a look at our tips to help you keep your dog’s weight in check so they can live a healthier, happier life.

Establish a doggie diet plan

If you are unsure of how much to feed your dog, speak to your vet for advice. If your dog is overweight, your vet will be able to advise you on a suitable diet plan.

Dogs on life-stage diets

Your dog’s age will determine how much you feed them. Young growing puppies will need to be fed more than older dogs that exercise less. If you have a puppy, you should monitor their weight as they grow. Once they reach their maximum weight you may need to adjust their food intake.

Exercise dogs regularly

In addition to dieting, exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy weight. Walk your dog regularly and give them free access to the garden if you can. Installing a pet door will ensure your dog can go out into the garden whenever they choose, allowing them to exercise more regularly. Give your dog an Animo activity and behavior monitor so that you can ensure your dog gets enough exercise and so that you can set daily activity goals.

Make meal times fun

Turn meal times into a game with interactive feeding toys that encourage your dog to work for their food. This gives your dog extra chances to exercise and stops them eating food too quickly.

Give treats responsibly

If you want to treat your dog, feed them healthy treats and avoid giving them leftovers. Try rewarding them with non-food related treats such as a cuddle or the chance to play with their favourite toy.

Meal times in multi-pet homes

If you have cats or other dogs in your home, try to separate them at meal times to prevent your dog eating more than their fair share. Dogs tend to eat food as soon as it’s put down whereas cats will favour grazing. To keep your dog away from your cat’s food, a SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder will give your cat exclusive access to their food and prevent your dog eating it.