Fat dogs are increasing in our society very much like the human population.
The difference is as responsible pet owners we can make a difference to our own pet's health.
This article talks about why our dogs become fat dogs in the first place and what we can do about it.
It might surprise you to know that one in three dogs is now overweight particularly in the western world.
Some breeds more than others, such as Basset hounds, beagles, Labrador retrievers and Cavalier king Charles spaniels.
These particular breeds can be prone to weight increase and owners needs to be vigilant about exercise and over feeding.
We are big fans of Staffordshire bull terriers who also love food and can be prone to increase their weight, though not as much as the breeds mentioned.
So well worth considering if you have not decided on a dog breed yet.
1.
Lack of Exercise Just like us human's fat dogs arise because of a number of factors around overfeeding and lack of exercise.
All dogs no matter what breed they are need exercise.
The amount varies with some dogs needing less than an hour a day and some much more.
However many dogs get much less than this with their humans leading busy lives.
As a responsible owner you need to plan in your dog's regular exercise.
If you are out at work all day it will mean putting the alarm on that bit earlier and taking your pooch for a quick stroll.
When you get back home.
Why not distress and take them for another walk.
It will actually do both of you a lot of good.
Better still why not involve the rest of the family in dog walking.
Your fat dog will love it to! 2.
Over feeding This is a classic mistake and one which many new dog owners make.
First remember they are a dog! As a result they metabolise their food differently and are not designed to break down human food in the same way.
Though it may seem harmless at the time, to give them the odd biscuit or cookie.
They start to mount up.
You are also giving them additional sugar that they really do not need.
Portion size is important for dogs.
It may not look a lot to you and if you are following the manufacturer's guidelines you will not go too far wrong.
Better still watch your dog, and make sure they have regular health checks.
Any good vet will weigh your dog and let you know if they are in the correct weight range.
If not cut down on food and increase exercise it will work like a charm.
The thing is us humans love our dogs and want them to be around with us as long as possible.
By following some simple guidelines like we mention above they can be.