Dogs – Is You Dog Overweight ?

Weight Problems in Dogs: Is Your Dog Fat?

Did you know that obesity is one of the greatest health risks
among dogs?

Obesity is caused by excessive eating and unhealthy binges just
as it is in humans. Often, this situation is triggered by some
environmental factors that may lead to more problems when not
controlled .

Like humans, dogs develop certain diseases when they are
overweight. These diseases, if not corrected, can lead to more
serious complications including death. Here is a list of some of
the repercussions of obesity in dogs:

1. Arthritis

Obesity in dogs tends to put extra weight on their bones. In
turn, the joints and other parts of the dog’s bones develop
arthritis.

Excess weight in dogs may also initiate the development of other
muscle and joint problems like spinal disc disease, hip
dysplasia, and cracks on the joint ligaments.

2. Diabetes

Like humans, dogs can get diabetes too. We all know for a fact
that overweight cause diabetes in humans. This can also happen
in dogs. The reason is that the more fat stored in the dog’s
body, the greater its system will generate insulin in order to
cope up with its growing mass. Hence, dogs have the tendency to
resist too much insulin in the body. The end result is diabetes.

3. Skin problems

Obesity in dogs can cause some skin problems. This is because
excess fat deposits are being stored in their skin; hence, their
owners are having a hard time grooming them. When dogs lack
proper grooming, there is a tendency to accumulate bacteria,
dirt, or other elements that could cause harm to your dog’s
skin. In the end, they develop rashes, skin ruptures, and
infections.

4. Capacity to tolerate heat

With too much fat deposits accumulated in their skin, dogs are
more inclined to problems concerning heat tolerance. This is
because dogs find it hard to tolerate heat due to the build-up
of fats in their skin. That is why most obese dogs are prone to
heat stroke especially during summer time.

5. Respiratory problems and other heart diseases

Like humans, obese dogs also have the tendency to develop
respiratory problems and heart diseases. This is because the
chest cavity is already covered with thick fat deposits. Hence,
whenever the dog breathes, the lungs are having a hard time
expanding and so does the heart. The problem starts when the
heart and the lungs can no longer produce the right amount of
oxygen and circulate it within the dog’s body.

6. Gastrointestinal problems

Obesity in dogs causes some problems in their intestines and
pancreas. This problem results in an inflamed pancreas which is
very painful to the dog and can also cause death.

7. Liver problems

Fats are harder to strain and this can pose a problem to the
dog’s liver. When the liver can no longer function well because
of the fat deposits that accumulated in the area, liver problems
may occur and may even cause the death of your dog.

These health problems are indeed life threatening. It depends
upon the owner how to combat these problems in order to keep
your dog healthy.

One of the greatest ways to solve weight problems is a strict
exercise schedule. It is a must that owners create a healthy
exercise schedule for their dogs. This can be done by taking
them for a walk every afternoon or letting him run through a
field.

The best thing about this program is that not only the dogs get
the chance to exercise but their owners as well. So, it’s a
double benefit.

Next is to create a healthy diet for your dogs. Diet meals are
extremely important for dogs so that they can still obtain the
necessary nutrients they need in order to stay healthy. This
should include the right combination of fiber, meat, vegetables,
vitamins, and minerals.

However, dog owners should always keep in mind that when their
dogs are taking fiber, more water should be employed so as to
prevent constipation.

Alternatively, dog owners should also remember that before
incorporating all of these things for your dog, it’s best to
consult the veterinarian first.

For healthier and happier dogs, give them the best love and care
you can plus a great dietary regimen. As they say, a healthy dog
is a happy dog.