Overweight Dogs – How To Avoid This Problem
Dog Foods and Feeding Schedules
I found this great article in our local paper with good information from the American Kennel Club. The AKC warns that excess weight endangers the heart, lungs and joints and makes a dog more susceptile to other ailments. Here are some feeding rules:
Consider what stage of development your pet is at when you plan their diet – Puppies eat more and are highly active, adult dogs have normal routines and food intake, and older dogs might require special diets and limited exercise.
Have regular mealtimes - An irregular eating schedule can affect your dog’s digestive system and ultimately cause chronic digestive disorders. Digestive problems can usually be improved by a change in diet.
Dogs don’t easily adjust to a time-zone change or daylight savings time – To prepare your dog for a time change, gradually adjust her eating schedule over a few weeks.
It is important that your dog’s water and food bowls are kept in the same place every day – If you have more than one dog, make sure each dog has its own food and water bowl.
Don’t worry about your dog getting hungry between meals – Your dog needs only one or two meals daily if fed on a regimented schedule and receives a balanced diet.
Set a 30 minute rule – If your dog has walked away from its bowl, it has probably had enough to eat. Discard the remaining food since exposed dog food is unsanitary.
Resist giving your dog people food – A begging dog can be hard to resist, but your dog doesn’t know how dangerous the meal you’re eating can be. Grapes, raisins, chocolate and onions are among foods that can be toxic to your dog in large enough quantities. Sometimes excessive fat in meats or dairy products can cause digestive distress.
Don’t over-treat or over-supplement your dog – Too many treats will lead to excess pounds. Too many vitamins also can have unintended consequences. Ask your vet before starting your dog on a regimen of supplements.
See our related post about Pet Food Additives
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