Your dog looks up at you with those eyes. Those eyes just stare sadly at you, begging for one more treat or for just one bite of your dinner. You know you should say no. But, your dog has your heartstrings with those eyes and you reluctantly give in.
It’s hard to say no to an eager dog, which is one of the many reasons dogs can and do become overweight. Fortunately, getting your overweight dog to lose weight is fairly simple, although it will take consistency and determination on your part, especially when he begs for food.
5 Tips To Help Your Dog Lose Weight.
Consult your veterinarian.
Your vet should be able to provide you with guidelines for how much to feed your dog each day and how much exercise he needs. He may also do an exam to determine if there’s an underlying medical condition that’s causing your dog to be overweight.
Go for daily walks.
Dogs need exercise no matter what their age. A walk – or several walks daily – can help keep your dog fit and trim and can offer other benefits, including socialization with dogs and other people. If you are too busy to take your dog for daily walks, you can hire Pet Sitters Ireland to come to your home and take your dog for a walk on the days and at the times you designate.
Schedule play time each day.
Play is essential to your dog’s mental and physical health. Set aside time each day to play with your dog whether it’s throwing a ball across the room or tossing a kong, filled with a few treats, he can chase then roll around to get the treats out.
Cut down on treats.
You don’t necessarily have to forgo all treats, but cut down on them to help your dog lose weight. Be sure to also avoid giving table scraps, unless your vet says it’s acceptable to do so.
Feed smaller meals more frequently.
If you have ever tried to lose weight, you have probably heard the theory that you should eat smaller meals more frequently rather than eating three big meals a day. Your vet should provide you with how much you should feel your dog each day. Take that total and divide it by how many times you want to feed your dog. If you normally feed him twice a day, try feeding him three or four times a day.
Getting a dog to lose weight is possible if you remain consistent and persistent – and try to stay strong, even when your dog is begging, giving you his most sorrowful look to get an extra treat – you can do it!! 🙂
