Obesity In Dachshund Dogs

Despite their ferocity and stubbornness, Dachshund dogs can still develop lasting friendship with their owners. Dog owners in return seem to give more than their dog could ever want. From comfortable ...

Despite their ferocity and stubbornness, Dachshund dogs can still develop lasting friendship with their owners. Dog owners in return seem to give more than their dog could ever want. From comfortable haven to lots of toys and of course do not forget the foods. They usually feed their Dachshund dogs with whatever they are eating. it seems that the chocolate bar is sweeter when shared with their pets or the ice cream is more tempting when they will lick it together. Whatever and whenever they eat, the dog eats! Some may consider this activity normal because to them, there is nothing wrong with feeding their Dachshund dogs with what they eat.

But wait, have your ever thought of obesity in dogs? Dogs such as Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Basset Hounds and Dachshunds are more likely to develop obesity. Obesity in Dachshund dogs is linked with intervertebral disk disease, a spinal problem known to affect this breed. So it is important to watch out for this disease to avoid other diseases from affecting your dog.

How will you know that your pet is over? Just check the hips, the ribs and the neck. Overweight dogs have heavy fat over the ribs, along the spine and around the tail while morbidly fat dogs have protruding abdomens and fat deposits throughout their bodies. You can feel these fats by placing your hands on your dog's body. There are still other ways to check whether your dog is overweight. The abdomen should not be hanging down when you look at him on the side or a waist should be visible behind the ribs when you look at your Dachshund dog from above. A physically fit dog is known to be energetic and active, while overweight ones suddenly become reluctant to jump in and out of the car, play with other dogs or with the family members and have subdued behavior.

Obesity is not something to be taken for granted as it may lead to health problems related to heart, lungs liver, kidneys and joints thus may shorten life span. Control is one of the best solutions in dealing with this problem. Control your dog's food intake and feed only what is necessary. Regular exercise is another way in preventing obesity. A dog deprived of his regular exercise is more likely to gain weight than the ones involved in doing physical activities. Seek out your vet's help for suggestions or recommendations on the proper diet and exercise requirement of your dog.

With your care and attention, your dog can surely overcome this condition. Don't worry about you not sharing that bar of chocolate with Tricks. If that's one way of keeping him fit and happy then there's no need for you to feel guilty.

Article Tags: Dachshund Dogs