fatness is on the rise for canines. The reasons for this influx are similar to those that persons experience, too much food and too little exercise. The results of obesity are similar for your canine friends too. Studies reveal that 25% of overweight dogs experience severe joint problems. This effects there every day activities such as walking, standing and sitting. It also increases pain and makes jumping up or down off the bed tricky. If a dog is overweight its lungs cannot function appropriately- the additional fat pushes against the lungs and diaphragm and makes breathing more difficult. Carrying additional weight decrease ability to perform daily activities. It takes more work to do everything. Body systems have to do more than they were designed for because extra weight places strain on the heart, muscles and respiratory system. Because being overweight causes every day tasks to be harder and causes more pain, dogs can become more bad-tempered. Dogs that are overweight have shorter life duration and a lower quality of life. However, there are several things that a pet owner can do to help their animals shed the pounds and live a longer, happier life.

Assessing Your Dog

One way to watch if your dog is overweight is by checking their ribs. The ribs should not be visible as they stand, but still noticeable when you touch them or when they move (such as leaping in the air to catch a Frisbee). If you cannot feel your dog's ribs, they are almost certainly overweight. The first and most important measure is to take your dog to their veterinarian. Your dog should be seen on a yearly basis for a routine medical. One cause why visiting veterinarian is so important is that a few dogs do not seem overweight. Large dogs can particularly hide weight well. Your veterinarian will be able to make a decision if your dog is overweight and why. To help your veterinarian keep a record of what you are doing with your dog before you go. Record your dog's good example such as sleeping, eating and exercise. In some cases weight concern might be due to medical conditions, such a thyroid problems, verses overeating and under exercising.

Feeding

Dog needs so much affection. One cause dogs eat too much is that pet owners use food as a simple method to show their love. It is not suggested to do this. Using food as a way of reward trains your dog to seek food for liking. This adds to their weight gain and all the other linked problems. Instead, fill their need for interest with games, petting and playing or get a new toy or go for a walk. Habits are difficult to break, so here are few tips to help you. Do not leave food out all day. Set a plan and a location to eat. One meal for each day (or two little ones) is all that a dog wants. Also, one day every week with no food will help burn additional fat which they have store up in their bodies. Dogs are trained in behavior. If they beg at the table and someone gives them food, they be trained that begging results in getting what they want. To help change this pattern feed your dog before you eat and keep them in another room while you have dinner. After, take them out for a walk or to play a game so they feel appreciated and get the attention they need. Once new outlines have been decided upon make sure everybody in the family is on board. Otherwise someone might feel "sorry" for the begging dog and give them "just a little something" and this will slow down or prevent your dog's weight loss, especially if that "little something" is every day. Meet as a family to talk about the need for alters in your dog's diet and how your animal will be affected if you do not. This will help everybody understand why and help them keep the new rules.