Is your dog obese? While this will not appear to be a priority to you initially, over a time frame being obese could put them susceptible to many health problems from diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, hypertension, urinary bladder stones and eventually shorten their lifespan. All of us love our furry babies and seeing them sick will be heart breaking. In case you dog has gained extra weight, you should add more physical activities to their routine and definitely tweak their eating regimen so as to add more protein and fibre content. Sugary treats are a no-no and overeating have to be discouraged. Adding seeds, oats, curd can be helpful for them. (Also read: Teachers’ Day 2022: 9 things your pets can teach you)

“Obese dogs could seem cute to some but extra weight can have detrimental effects in your pet’s well-being. A rise in weight may cause arthritis, cardiac disease, diabetes, problems with blood pressure, lethargy, digestive disturbances, pancreatitis, musculoskeletal problems, skin and coat issues, etc. As pet parents who love our four-legged best friends, it’s best to avoid weight gain and make attempts to counter it,” says Dr Dilip Sonune, Veterinary Officer, Wiggles.

Listed below are some dietary suggestions you may follow to cut back your dog’s weight:

Tweak their eating regimen

Vets suggest reducing the carb and fat content in an obese dog’s eating regimen and increasing the protein and fibre content. Pet parents can provide lamb and rice to see good results, especially if dogs are allergic to chicken. They will feed carbs like sweet potatoes in a limited amount. Pet-safe fruit and veggies like pumpkin, carrots, broccoli, cucumber, beetroots, boiled vegetables, beans, watermelon, apple, pear, etc will be added to a dog’s eating regimen. Don’t give them tomatoes or spinach during this time. Leafy greens containing histamine may cause itching, so be prepared.

Seeds

Flaxseed, chia, and basil seeds do wonders for weight reduction, digestion, and immunity. You may sprinkle it over in your dog’s food a couple of times every week in small amounts to reap all the advantages. Using it usually can harm your dog’s health. In case you see any digestive problem or skin issues, stop it immediately. Dogs can have it raw or cooked but in small quantities only.

Oats and Dahi

Oats and curd are great combination to feed obese dogs. It’s healthy and straightforward on the stomach. It helps construct helpful gut bacteria.

Lifestyle Changes

Diet is only one a part of weight reduction. Be sure you play together with your dogs and concentrate on making a higher lifestyle as well. Long walks, treks, fetching balls or sticks, and swimming are good exercises for dogs and helpful for weight reduction and overall well-being.

“Dogs are more notorious than human babies in terms of food. They are going to make a fuss, won’t eat, and make countless requests to offer them what they like. They are going to get demanding, frustrated, and even offended. As pet parents, you could have to make the precise alternative for them. Many parents think dogs need variety in food nevertheless it’s not true. In case you give them complete and nutritious food that’s balanced and palatable, they may eat it each day. In case your obese dog gets fussy, make food interesting and flavourful. Every dog is exclusive and their food selections are too. In case you’re confused concerning the next steps, don’t hesitate to get a personalised and tailored eating regimen from a pet nutritionist or a vet,” says Dr Sonune.

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