Canine Diet Recommendations for Dog Weight Loss

Dog weight loss is recommended for a longer and healthier life of your pet companion. Obesity in dogs can lead to heart problems, diabetes mellitus and other diseases that will eventually shorten your dog’s life expectancy. A proper diet that is rich in essential nutrients and low in carbs may help in weight loss.

Weight Loss Essentials

A dog that needs to lose weight should eat fewer calories, so that the fat deposits are burnt. Consult your vet about the optimal amount of calories for your dieting dog. The amount of calories is based on your dog’s weight and energy level and the amount of exercise he performs on a daily basis.

However, you shouldn’t drastically cut down on your dog’s calorie intake, as this will have detrimental effects on his health.

Wet Food

Dogs may eat either wet or kibble food. The kibble food is a more advantageous for most dog owners, being more cost effective and contains the needed nutrients for canines. Dry food contains sugar and flour, so it’s not ideal for weight loss.

If your dog needs to lose weight, wet food is more recommended. Wet food has an increased amount of water contents, which fills up the dog’s stomach making him feel full. Your dog shouldn’t feel hungry during a diet, as this may result in him going after garbage and other food or plants that may be toxic.

Protein Based Diet

During a diet, a dog should get his essential nutrients. Being a carnivore, the dog needs meat even while on diet. The amount of protein can be as high as 30 to 35% in a diet; the fat intake can be 15 to 18%.

Cut down on fibers and carbs, as these can be fattening. However, make sure that the dog gets enough fibers, so that the digestion is normal.

Raw Diet

A raw diet can be very useful in a weight loss program for dogs. You can prepare the food at home; keep in mind the essential nutrients a dog needs.

If you opt for a raw diet, make sure you make the transition from commercial food gradual; otherwise your pet may experience digestive problems.

Make sure the raw meat you administer to your dog is not infested with parasites or bacteria.

Light Food Formula

Dogs may get light food when on diet. Light food typically contains fewer calories, but make sure to check the label and see if the food contains the essential nutrients. If anything is missing, ask your vet for a few supplements.

During a weight loss program you shouldn’t free feed your pet. If food is left outside, the dog can be tempted to have a snack. If you hide the food bowl after your pet has eaten, you control his calorie intake and the diet will be successful.

Stimulate the weight loss with some antioxidants such as selenium or vitamin E for fat burn and minerals such as chromium for the metabolism.

Get some omega 3 fatty acids to maintain your pet’s skin and coat healthy during the weight loss program.

 

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