2016 Weight Loss Resolutions for Your Pup

Problems Caused by Canine Obesity
Being overweight can lead to numerous adverse health effects in dogs, including, but not limited to:- Breathing Problems
- Arthritis / Joint Problems
- Liver Disease
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
Tips for Helping Your Pup Shed Some Pounds
By changing just a few aspects of your dog’s lifestyle, you can help make vast improvements in his or her life and overall health. A few easy tips you can incorporate into your routine include:- Healthy Snacks – While the beef treats and bully sticks you normally gave your pet might have been their favorite, these treats can also be extremely unhealthy. So if you still want to give your pup a few bites in between meals, or if you’re working on training and need a reward, opt for something healthy! Many human vegetables, like steamed green beans or cooked pumpkin, can make a great snack and you’ll still feel like you’re giving your dog something special. Make sure to check any human foods to ensure they are safe for dog consumption before you start feeding your pup off the table or out of the pantry.
- Follow the Guidelines on their Food – All bags of dog food will have a recommended feeding guide based on a dog’s size, and the amount of food you feed your pet will vary greatly from food to food. Make sure to always check these instructions when you switch foods or brands, and don’t just assume that you should keep feeding your dog the same amount that you used to.
- Stay Strong – If your pup is used to getting treats in between meals or scraps from the table, he or she will likely continue begging for something special, even though you are trying hard to help him or her lose weight. Stay strong, resist those sad puppy eyes, and know that you’re making decisions based on your dog’s greater needs, rather than an in-the-moment feeling.
- Increase Exercise – Even if you just add a quick turn around the block once a day, increasing your dog’s exercise regimen by even a little can have tremendous benefits for your dog’s health, and yours too! Even if you feel like you have no free time, start small, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to fit 15 minutes of walking every day into your schedule. From there, you can increase your walks to longer adventures if you want or need to.