Over Feeding Your Dog

Did you know that feeding table scraps and overfeeding an abundance of dog food and treats can actually harm your pet?

It’s important for animals to have the right balance of essential vitamins, nutrients and minerals for their bodies to function properly. Dogs can develop a variety of health problems from overfeeding, like obesity, neurologic diseases, poor bone density, diabetes and heart failure.

An obese animal is not a healthy animal; they often have less energy and it is harder for them to get around, go for walks and get up and down stairs. A dog that can run and jump will be much happier and have much better mental and physical health. Obesity can actually shorten a dog's lifespan.

Key Points to Consider When Feeding your Dog:

• Look at pet food labels. Avoid by products and food high in meal.

• Monitor the frequency of treats and table scraps.

• Increase exercise—increase the amount of daily activity your overweight pet gets by extending or increasing the frequency of your daily walks,

• Monitor your pet’s weight. Talk to your veterinarian if your pet continues to gain or lose weight. It is especially important to monitor your dogs weight after being spayed or neutered.

Reducing the amount of food you feed your pet to help them lose weight may lead to nutritional deficiencies, so speak with your veterinarian to establish a plan of action, including a prescription diets. A sedentary lifestyle is never good. If you work long hours while your dog is alone at home leave interactive toys for your pet. Physical activity and mental stimulation will provide exercise and prevent boredom.

In short dogs just like people need a well balanced diet, exercise and mental stimulation for long happy lives. It is a short list for unconditional love!