overweight beagle

Question
I have a 3yr old female beagle that is 20lbs overweight. I need a effective diet for her before her hips and legs start to give her problems...Help...

Answer
First take your girl to the vet for a checkup. It's very important to have a vet supervise any diet that a dog starts on. Their systems are different from ours and a sudden dropping of caloric intake can wreak havoc in ways that it won't with us. Start her slowly on an exercise program, and cut out all treats,. That's a good start. Do take her to the vet as her problem could be metabolic. Beagles are supposed to be running dogs and they store calories in a big way. Exercise is necessary for this breed always to keep their systems in order,
Good luck!
Diane