Best diet for dogs that are overweight

Obesity in pets is almost as big of an epidemic as obesity in people, which is why we definitely need to look for some of the best diet for dogs.

It is estimated that 1/4 to 1/3 of pets in the U.S. are overweight. If you look at your dog from overhead, you should be able to see a visible waist between the hips and the ribs. Also, their stomach should rise from the bottom of their rib cage up to the inside of their thighs. If your dog’s stomach is roughly as wide as their ribs and hips, or if it hangs down flat, your dog is most definitely obese and needs to get on a best diet for dogs that are overweight.

What you feed your pet has a lot to do with how much they weigh, and it is your responsibility as a pet owner to keep your dog in shape. Try feeding your dog only the healthy dog foods, and natural dog treats.

RELATED: See some of our lists and reviews for the top best dog food brands and dry dog foods.

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Best Diet for Dogs that are Overweight

A dog’s diet is the biggest contributing factor to obesity- however it isn’t the only factor. Dogs that are let loose in the yard to run freely tend to be more overweight than dogs that are walked by their owner at least once a day. Similarly, older dogs are more likely to be overweight as well and in need of a best diet for dogs. Breed and genetics also play a role. Certain breeds including Basset hounds, Cocker spaniels, Dalmatians, Golden and Labrador retrievers, and Rottweilers are more prone to excessive weight gain than other breeds.

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Just like with people, being overweight can have an extremely negative effect on your dog’s health. It can lead to hyperthyroidism, lameness, osteoarthritis, and heart problems just to name a few. If your dog is overweight there are lots of things you can begin doing immediately to help them get back to a healthy weight beside finding a best diet for dogs. Increasing physical activity is the first step, but it needs to be followed up with a best diet for dogs that will help foster weight loss as well.

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These guidelines for a healthier, best diet for dogs that are overwight will get your pet back on track to a healthy life in no time.

1. Only feed your pet twice a day. If you free feed, do away with it. Feed your dog once in the morning and once at night. If the food is still sitting there after 30 minutes pick it up and offer it again at the next meal. This will stop your dog from gorging once a day or grazing all day long- neither of which is a good eating habit.
2. Feed them according to breed and size specifications. Consult your veterinarian on the specific needs for your dog. Working breeds and dogs that are more active need to eat more than dogs that have a sedentary lifestyle. Your vet will be able to tell you how much food your dog should be consuming in a day.
3. Limit people food and treats. Unfortunately, in most cases we are the cause of our dog’s unhealthy figure. Dogs love treats and we love our dogs, but you should show your dog love and attention that doesn’t involve food. Most people food is very high in artificial ingredients and fat and can have a bad effect on your dog’s health. You should limit table scraps and treats to about 5% of their daily nutritional intake.
4. Feed your dog a nutritionally balanced food. Make sure to buy dog food that lists meat (chicken, lamb, beef, etc…) as the first ingredient. Just like us dogs need to eat a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Cheaper dog foods have more fillers and additives and you should steer clear of those. Making your own natural dog food can be a cheaper way of providing them with a balanced diet also.

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