Tubby should be the nickname for your dog, not a description. These days 40 percent of dogs are significantly overweight. And just like their owners, obesity can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes. Why not put your pup on a proper diet and workout plan?
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Take your dog for a check up
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Visit the veterinarian and ask what the healthy weight is for your dog, and how long it might take to your canine companion to lose extra weight. Ask the vet what percentage you can reduce your pet's food. Tell the vet that you will be exercising your dog on a regular basis, starting with a 10 minute walk every day and working up to longer times. The vet will let you know if your dog is healthy enough, or what you can do to help your pooch lose weight and get in shape.
Every two weeks take the dog back to the vet to be weighed. Most vets will be delighted that you care enough to track your dog's weight loss and won't charge for a visit.
Diet
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Most dogs will eat until there isn't anything left in the bowl and then scrounge around for more. People equate giving dogs food with giving them love. Sharing food from a plate because the pooch has those pleading eyes, and one little taste couldn't hurt, all leads to a fat dog.
Fill your dog's bowl with the normal amount of food. Then measure the amount of food in the bowl and reduce it by the amount the vet suggested. For example, if the food measures two cups, and you have been told you can reduce the food by 20 percent, reduce the amount by a little less than 1/2 cup. From now on measure the food to the new diet.
Stop all treats and snacks except those for training purposes. Reserve some of your dog's dinner or breakfast portion to use as treats for training. If the dog eats only canned food, buy a package of dry kibble to use for treats. Use carrots and celery sticks as rewards as well.
Workout
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Dogs love to take walks. Walking the weight off is good for both of you. Start with a 10 minute walk. After a few days increase the walk to 12 minutes and then to 15 minutes and finally 20 minutes. When you reach the 20 minute mark change tactics slightly. Walk in one direction for 10 minutes, notice a landmark such as a tree, street corner, or neighbor's house and return home.
Increase the speed at which you walk and try to get to the same landmark in less than seven or eight minutes instead of 10. Continue the walk for the full 20 minutes.
As you progress, keep lengthening the time you walk and increase the distance until you are up to 45 minutes at a brisk pace.
Don't be surprised if you've shed some pounds, along with your puppy pal.
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