Obesity is defined as body weight more than 15 percent above normal resulting from an accumulation of fat. It occurs in 25-50 percent of all dogs in the United States. Obese dogs are more prone to high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, certain cancers, anesthesia and surgical complications and decreased stamina and heat tolerance.
Female dogs are prone to obesity, as are middle-age dogs. Certain breeds are also more prone to obesity, such as Labradors, dachshunds, beagles and cocker spaniels. Obesity occurs when energy intake exceeds energy expenditure. Neutering increases the risk of obesity. Another major cause of obesity in dogs is hypothyroidism, or low thyroid levels.
Dogs are usually tested for hypothyroidism and other hormonal abnormalities. Many of these hormonal problems are easily treated with inexpensive drugs. If there are no hormonal problems, then your veterinarian can help your pet with a plan for a weight-loss program. For the animal to lose weight, it is necessary for energy expenditure to be greater than energy intake. That’s accomplished by increasing exercise (energy expenditure) and by feeding a diet low in fat and high in fiber, thus lowering caloric intake. There are many excellent diets that your veterinarian can recommend to accomplish the goal of weight loss.
It is important to monitor your dog’s weight every one to two weeks and chart its weight loss. An ideal weight loss is 1 percent weekly. After the desired target weight is reached, body weight is monitored monthly to ensure that the optimal weight is maintained.
Weight loss is difficult to achieve in some dogs and requires prolonged dedication and dietary restrictions. Talk to your veterinarian about supplementing your pet’s diet with fibers such as green vegetables and pumpkin. The bottom line is that if something is healthy for you, it is usually healthy for your dog.
Dr. Karsten Fostvedt is a veterinarian at St. Francis Pet Clinic in Ketchum.
Published at Fri, 11 May 2018 10:07:30 +0000
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