Not only people are overweight, nowadays there are also more and more dogs that suffer from obesity. About 45 percent of the dogs in the Netherlands are overweight. The dog gains more energy than it can burn, causing it to gain weight. Certain breeds are more prone to it, as well as older dogs and neutered dogs. Overweight dogs run certain health risks, such as feeling hot more quickly, can develop diabetes and heart and respiratory problems.
Obesity
When there is more energy in the food than is burned, the surplus will be converted into body fat. A dog is considered overweight when the body weight is up to 15% above the ideal weight. When the weight is higher than 15% of the ideal weight, it is referred to as obesity or fighting spirit. About 45 percent of dogs in the Netherlands are overweight. Just like in humans, it is also an increasing problem in dogs. Dogs that have been neutered or spayed, older dogs, and certain breeds with a genetic predisposition such as retrievers and Jack Russels are more at risk of becoming overweight.
Risks of being overweight
An overweight dog has a lower life expectancy, he is often less healthy, less active and feels less fit. If a puppy is overweight, he is more likely to develop obesity later in life. A puppy that eats too much will grow faster than is good for him and that can lead to bone and joint problems. The overweight dog is more at risk of developing the following health problems:
- Joint problems
- Diabetes mellitus
- Heat faster
- Heart and respiratory problems
- Bad skin and coat condition
- Liver disorders
- Greater risks in case of anesthesia during surgery
- Reduced resistance to infection
Characteristics
An overweight dog is usually stockier. Sometimes it is clearly visible and you can feel a layer of fat on the ribs, spine and tail base. When the ribs are hard to feel with a flat hand, the dog is too fat. The dog will be out of breath more quickly during exercise and will be more difficult to encourage to move. Usually obesity develops gradually, so you don’t notice because you see the dog every day. Monitor your dog’s weight and weigh it occasionally. If it doesn’t work yourself, weigh it when you get to the vet.
Causes of obesity
Obesity usually arises because the dog is fed more than it burns. Every animal needs calories (energy) to maintain all body functions. This energy is obtained from the diet by carbohydrates, fats and proteins it contains. The nutrition and combustion must be in balance, so that the dog maintains a good weight. Many people are inclined to give their dogs little extras, such as table scraps or snacks. Other causes of obesity can include:
- Castration or sterilization which changes hormone balance
- Thyroid and hormone problems
- Medication use
- Provide extra food when the dog is alone
- Admit when dog begs
- Not enough exercise
Let the dog lose weight
If you don’t know how much weight your dog should lose, talk to a vet. Get your dog to exercise more, but do this gradually so that he has a chance to build up fitness. Improve your diet and avoid snacks. If your dog begs, give it a pat as a reward, but no food. Give your dog several smaller meals a day instead of one large meal so that his blood sugar level is more stable. Do not give your dog special diet food, but normal food as it usually contains more fiber and energy. First go for a walk and then feed him.
During weight loss
When your dog is losing weight, body fat is broken down and converted into energy. Body fat contains many foreign substances that cannot always be broken down. Losing weight releases these toxins and can lead to detoxification symptoms. This can manifest itself in a strong shedding, thinner stools, pimples in the groin and licking of the legs. This is a natural process and if you maintain the good lifestyle for a while, these symptoms will stop on their own.
Types of hunger
There are two types of hunger, namely “energy”. hungry and technical ?? hungry. In the absence of readily available energy, this must be supplemented by nutrition. The sugar level is low and you have to eat or get energy from body fat to get the energy back up. With technical hunger, the stomach is empty, but there is no lack of readily available energy. There is a feeling of hunger because the stomach is empty and asks for food. Therefore, be careful with diet food that contains extra fiber, this gives more stomach filling and therefore there is more and more technical hunger.
Mental hunger
A dog is descended from wolves and still has the basic behavior of the wolf. Wolves start chewing something after eating a meal. That can be a stick, bones or a piece of skin. This causes the wolf to produce substances in the brain that make it calm, endorphins called. Therefore, chewing will satisfy a dog’s spiritual hunger just after eating.
Maintain weight
Once your dog has reached the target weight, it is important to make sure your dog is holding on to it. Try to avoid a yo-yo effect and keep an eye on his diet. If your dog is used to not having snacks anymore, don’t teach them anymore. A healthy weight is better for your dog’s health and will have a better life expectancy.