
Dog’s gain weight, just as we do, and while some of the reasons for weight gain can be more obvious, such as eating habits and lifestyle, there are other culprits that can cause our pups to pack on the pounds. According to pets.webmd.com, over half of the dogs in the United States are overweight or obese, putting them at higher risks for other health issues and decreased life expectancy. Understanding the cause of your canine’s weight gain is the best way to battle the bulge and help your fur friend regain that flattering, four-legged figure.
Common Causes of Dog Obesity Include:
Lack of Exercise: Dogs need exercise and when they don’t get the physical activity necessary to keep them ‘fit’, it can result in unhealthy weight gain. On average, canines require 30 minutes of exercise a day to keep them happy and healthy. Factors such as size, age, and breed should always be considered when planning a fitness routine for your pup, as some dogs need more activity than others, and if your four-legged friend hasn’t exercised for a while, take it slow.
Overeating: It’s easy to reward our pets with tasty treats when they display good behavior, or share samplings from our plate as we sit down for dinner, but these habits can have negative consequences. Surprisingly, dogs don’t require the calorie intake that you might think, so monitoring the amount of food given throughout the day and offering healthy alternatives to snacks and treats can make all the difference in your pooch maintaining a healthy weight.
Genetics: Yes, genetics can play a role in your pup’s weight! Certain breeds, such as Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Cocker Spaniels are prone to weight gain, so keeping them active by providing adequate exercise is the best way to keep the weight off.
Aging: Sarcopenia, or the loss of muscle mass, is common in older dogs and can result in a slower metabolism, which ultimately leads to weight gain. High protein diets and daily activity can be beneficial for aging dogs, as they can slow the process of muscle mass depletion and contribute to a healthy body weight.
Medical Issues: Undiagnosed health problems, such as osteoarthritis, Cushing’s Disease, or hypothyroidism can be detrimental to a dog’s weight, and health. If your canine eats right and gets plenty of exercise, but still seems to be putting on the pounds, seeking medical attention is highly recommended. Your veterinarian can perform the proper tests and supply the right treatments and therapies to support well-being and keep your pooch fit.
Scoopy Doo’s of Longmont cares about the health of your pets, after all, we couldn’t do what we ‘doo’ without them! We might not be able to help your obese dog lose weight, but we can clean up his poop. If you live in Longmont, Boulder, Niwot, or the surrounding areas and need professional pet waste removal services for your residential, HOA, or commercial property, call the poop scooper specialists at Scoopy Doo’s today. We really do take a load off!