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Just like in humans, obesity can lead to serious health issues in dogs as well. The primary causes of obesity in dogs are lack of physical activities, imbalanced diet, and overfeeding. If you notice a sudden increase in your dog’s weight despite having a normal diet and sufficient exercise, it could also be a sign of some hormonal disorder. Obese dogs are at risk of developing diabetes, heart diseases, bone deterioration, arthritis, and other severe disorders. Thus, it is crucial to monitor your dog’s weight.
Wondering what is the ideal weight for dogs? A dog’s healthy weight can differ from breed to breed; hence, you can consult your vet to understand the right weight range for your pet. However, the below dog weight chart will help you get an idea on whether your furry friend is underweight, healthy, or obese.
Underweight: You can clearly see an underweight dog’s ribs, spine, and hip bone. There is zero body fat and that can be seen on its body. In dogs who are genetically thin, the loss of muscle mass may be evident.
Ideal: You can easily feel the ribs, spine and hips of a dog that falls in an ideal weight category. Its waist should also be visible from above and the side. The last couple of ribs may be visible on a short-coated dog while playing or exercising, which is normal.
Overweight: A dog is considered overweight when it weighs 10-20% more than its ideal body weight. It is difficult to feel the ribs of these dogs. The fat accumulation is also visible at the base of its tail and on the belly. Its back also starts to appear broader. It is advisable to start working on shedding the extra kilos your dog has gained at this stage.
Obese: A dog is considered overweight when it weighs 20% more than its ideal weight. You cannot feel its ribs at all due to the heavy fat accumulation. Fat deposits are also visible around the dog’s neck and its belly also starts to droop.
You can measure your dog’s weight at home if your dog is a small breed. Here are the steps to follow while measuring the weight of your dog at home:
These steps should not be followed by those who have medium or large breed dogs. The size of your dog could make it difficult for you to hold it properly, and if it starts fidgeting, the handler or the dog could get injured. Hence, owners of medium and large breed dogs should go to the vet to weigh their pet.
You can easily manage your dog’s weight and maintain the ideal weight of your dog if you follow a regime and take the necessary steps. Here’s are some things you should keep in mind during your dog’s weight management:
Dogs remain healthy if their food quantity is controlled and they are fed on time. But you should avoid feeding your dog home-cooked food. Wondering why? It is because home-cooked meals might not have the right nutrients in the right quantities and that can later affect your furry friend’s overall health. Hence, to keep such risks at bay, it is best that you avoid feeding home-cooked food. In case you plan on giving your dog home-cooked meals, it is imperative that you follow the recipe to the T.
Your dog is your friend so, it's hard not to share your delicious bacon or a mouthful of steak with it. When your dog sits next to you and makes those adorable puppy-dog eyes as you eat, it becomes even more difficult to not share some of your food with it. But you must resist. Giving “human food” greatly increases your dog’s fat intake. It also conditions the dog to believe that it will be fed every time you eat.
Exercise is a great way to keep your dog in shape. If you have a busy schedule, then you could break it down into short sessions to play fun games like tug-of-war or go for a quick jog with your dog. You could also play with a frisbee or start working on its agility. Dogs that get enough exercise are less likely to be stressed and this way, you would also get a break from your work.
Of course, you want to reward a dog when it’s been a good boy or a good girl. But keep in mind that those dog treats can add calories and fat. And more importantly, think about how many types of treats and snacks you are feeding your dog and how often.
Most of the time, dogs are overweight because they are taking in more calories than they burn. But it's possible there's a bigger problem. If you've tried to control your dog's diet and increase exercise and haven't seen any results yet, consult your veterinarian about thyroid disease or other metabolic or hormonal disorders.
Don't feel discouraged if you don't see results right away. The fight against obesity is fought one day at a time. It is the inculcation of good habits and discipline. By following the tips above and increasing your willpower and patience your dog’s weight management will be an easier and healthy process.
There are lots of dog foods available in the market and each pack contains different quantities of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. You must go for foods that provide complete nutrition to your furry friend, and not just calories. Hence, it is necessary to opt for a pet food brand that specializes in dog nutrition.
At IAMS™, we have been focusing on bringing out the best in your dog through healthy food. Explore our range of dog food and choose a product that best suits your dog’s size and age. However, consult your vet regarding the serving size and other details. A vet will also provide you with the tips and tricks on keeping your dog’s weight under control.
If you're looking for the perfect dog for you, try our Dog Breed Selector today and enjoy a lifetime of tail-wagging joy.
If your dog has the ideal weight, you will see that its waist narrows down behind the ribs. When you look from above and see that the waist and ribs of your dog fall in one line or even if the waist is bulging out, it indicates that your dog is overweight. The dog weight chart in this article will help you identify if your dog is in good shape.
If your dog is in the ideal weight category, you will be able to feel its spine and ribs with a little fat. But if you can distinctly see its ribs and spine, and its waist also sharply dips behind the ribs, then it means that your dog is undernourished and needs to gain weight.
Yes, walking is one of the most efficient and wholesome exercises that will prove beneficial in helping your dog lose weight.
A sharp increase in the dog’s weight may cannot always be blamed on the amount of food it eats. On many occasions, it may be because of the change in your dog’s metabolism or hormonal disorders as well.
At the heart of your dog's vitality lies vitamin K. From ensuring proper blood clotting to promoting robust bone health, the importance of vitamin K for dogs’ well-being cannot be overstated. In this blog, we will uncover the benefits surrounding this essential nutrient, exploring its sources, functions, and why it is imperative for fostering a healthy and happy life for your furry friend.
Vitamin K, a crucial fat-soluble nutrient for dogs, holds paramount importance in their overall health. Best known for its role in blood clotting, vitamin K ensures your canine companion's body can effectively respond to injuries by forming clots, preventing excessive bleeding. Beyond its hemostatic function, vitamin K plays a key role in bone health, regulating calcium and supporting protein synthesis crucial for maintaining bone density.
Two main forms, K1 (found in green leafy vegetables) and K2 (sourced from animal products and fermented foods), highlight the importance of a diverse diet. Understanding these sources and functions is pivotal, ensuring your dog receives a balanced nutritional intake.
Yes, dogs can and should have vitamin K as part of their diet. While dogs can synthesize some vitamin K on their own, it is often not sufficient for their overall health. However, it's important to note that dog diets should be carefully curated, as excessive vitamin K supplementation can lead to adverse effects. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of vitamin K for your dog's specific needs. By incorporating the right sources of vitamin K into your dog's diet, you contribute to their blood clotting, bone health, and overall well-being.
Yes, Vitamin K is beneficial for dogs and plays a crucial role in maintaining their overall health. As mentioned previously, vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, which is vital in preventing excessive bleeding in case of injuries or wounds. It also contributes to bone health and supports the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Including sufficient vitamin K in a dog's diet is particularly important to ensure their blood coagulation mechanisms are functioning optimally.
While vitamin K is generally safe for dogs, it is essential to provide it in appropriate amounts. Excessive intake of vitamin K for dogs may lead to adverse effects, so it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to determine the right dosage for your dog's specific needs. Additionally, pet parents should be cautious about offering human supplements, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
Understanding the diverse benefits of vitamin K for dogs is crucial in crafting a well-rounded approach to their nutritional needs. From supporting blood clotting to contributing to bone health, vitamin K plays a multifaceted role in enhancing your canine companion's overall well-being.
Vitamin K is pivotal in the synthesis of clotting factors, enabling your dog's blood to coagulate effectively. This ensures a rapid response to injuries, preventing excessive bleeding from minor wounds and promoting a quicker recovery process.
Beyond its hemostatic function, vitamin K regulates calcium within bones and facilitates the synthesis of proteins vital for maintaining optimal bone density. This not only supports skeletal strength but also contributes to a reduced risk of bone-related issues in your dog.
Research suggests that vitamin K possesses anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in managing conditions characterized by inflammation, and promoting a more comfortable and active life for your furry friend.
Serving as an antioxidant, vitamin K helps protect cells from damage, fortifying your dog's cellular health and bolstering their immune function against external stressors.
Emerging studies indicate a potential link between vitamin K for dogs and cardiovascular health, with the vitamin playing a role in preventing the calcification of arteries. This aspect highlights the broader impact of Vitamin K on your dog's systemic well-being.
Incorporating vitamin K-rich foods into your dog's diet can harness these benefits, but it's essential to consult with your veterinarian to tailor a nutrition plan that aligns with your dog's specific needs and ensures a vibrant and healthy life.
Navigating the nutritional landscape for your canine companion involves understanding diverse sources of Vitamin K1 and K2. Here is a breakdown of some safe vitamin K foods for dogs:
Vitamin K for dogs is essential for their overall well-being, playing a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. The importance of a diverse diet, encompassing both K1 and K2 from sources like green leafy vegetables and animal products, cannot be overstated. However, the key lies in moderation, as excessive supplementation may have adverse effects. It is essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure informed decision-making. By responsibly incorporating vitamin K-rich foods into your dog's meals, you contribute to their resilience to tackle everyday challenges. This nutritional journey fosters a healthy and joyous life for your cherished furry companion.
