Obesity in dogs.

Excess weight in dogs can lead to a number of debilitating health issue. studies have indicated that dogs with obesity live shorter lives the their normal-weight counterparts, about 2 years less. 
Common Weight-related disorders in dogs include:

• Osteoarthritis, cruciate ligament injuries, strains, sprains, luxating patella and decreased mobility
• Diabetes and other metabolic & endocrine disorders
• Respiratory disease
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Chronic inflammation
• Certain cancers

Dogs that are over-weight typically tend to interact less with their family and may exhibit reduced energy and playfulness.

This makes weight management essential for you dog's over all health. While weight loss may appear straightforward, it is important to fallow some guidelines.

• Have your dog examined by a veterinarian before beginning a weight loss program.
• Rule out or treat any underlying medical diseases.
• Determine your dog's current Body Condition Score(BCS) and ideal or target weight.
• Choose your dog's Step Weight Loss Plan( a gradual safe reduction in calories over time). Your veterinary team can calculate your pet's Daily Energy Requirements(DER) in terms of calories needed. Feeding too much will result in no weight loss, and feeding too little can be harmful
• Determine how many calories are in you dog's food and treats.
• Measure or weigh you dog's food and treats to provide precise feeding portions.
• Opt for low-calorie, healthy treats. Such as baby carrots sliced cucumbers and green beans.
• Feed more frequent, smaller meals to increase satiety and reduce begging behaviors.
• Feed your pets separately and do not leave food out when you are not there.
• Engage your dog in 30 minutes of exercise daily.
• Weigh your pet once a month and make changes and adjustments as needed
• Involve the whole family. Everyone needs to be aware of how much and how often you are feeding during the weight loss period.

BE PATIENT: Safe, healthy weight loss for dogs is typically 3 to 5% of a dog's current body weight per month, depending on the age, size and condition of the animal.
Most dogs will achieve their ideal weight within six to eight months. Some dogs may need to lose weight more slowly, while others may reduce excess weight more quickly.
If you do not observe weight loss within 30 - 60 days , some aspect of the plan may need some changes.
For most pets, the secret to the weight loss in the commitment and care from their family members.

If you are planning to change the food remember to do it slowly to avoid any digestive upset.
Begin by substituting 1/4 of the volume with the new food for a few days, then a 1/2 for a few days then 3/4 for a few days before going to the full amount.

Here are some tip on how to help when the dog is begging for food.

• Pet or play with your dog. Many dogs and people substitute food for affection. You may find that playtime displaces chow-time. 
• Walk or take you dog outside. The distraction may be enough to take its mind off of food.
• Feed small meals frequently
• Give vegetables for treats. They are low calorie
• Offer fresh water instead of food.

Dogs a minimum of 20-30 minutes of daily aerobic activity. Always keep in mind what activities fit with your dogs level of fitness, individual needs and limitations. Be sure to keep your dog hydrated during any activity.
Some Activities include

• Walking, start with the brisk walk out, then come back at a slower smell the area pace. gradually increase the pace and distance as their fitness improves
  
• Play with your dog, use toys, balls and games.
• Swimming or hydrotherapy is a great low impact exercise 
• Play dates or doggie daycare
• Vary your activities to keep your dog mentally stimulated and to prevent injury from repetitive strenuous activity

If you have any questions about your dog's weight loss plan call you veterinary healthcare team.