By now, you've probably heard the statistics: 65-percent of Americans are overweight or obese, and those numbers are growing. And if you're reading this blog, you are probably aware that obesity in American pets is also becoming epidemic - an estimated 25-percent of American dogs are considered obese. Like humans, overweight dogs are more at risk for diabetes, joint problems, heart disease, and some cancers. So, if you find that your favorite jeans and your pup's favorite collar just don't fit the way they used to, there may be a solution close at hand.
Personally, I'm facing this very same issue myself. During my animal rescue internship, life was so crazy that - while I was moving a lot for long hours each day - my sleep patterns were interrupted, I wasn't watching what I ate, and I wasn't getting the kind of cardiovascular and total-body workouts I require to stay fit. So... fifty pounds later, it's time to go back to the drawing board. And my pups? Both Adia and Killian are in reasonably good shape because I make all of their food myself and I'm careful about their portions, however Adia could still stand to lose about five pounds. What do I propose to do to shed those excess pounds?
Exercise, exercise, exercise. And it turns out, walking the dog is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and get back in shape. In the past two weeks, I've increased my daily half-hour dog-walk to two hour-long walks per day. Not only do I feel a whole lot better, but I've lost eight pounds already. And Killian and Adie are both looking more svelte and their energy levels - for better or worse - are soaring. Because they're getting adequate exercise, however, chewing issues and general rowdiness have both been curbed. So, here are three tips for shedding pooch-and-person pounds sensibly.
(1) Know your pup's limits. If your pooch is a senior, has joint or other health related issues, or is seriously overweight, make sure to check in with your vet before starting any vigorous exercise. Just like humans, dogs need to ease into a fitness regiment. Begin slowly - if you've only been walking once a day, up it to twice; once in the morning, once in the evening. Watch how your dog reacts after the fact... Does he have more trouble than usual getting up the stairs or onto the couch? Your dog should be tired after exercise, but not comatose.
(2) Keep your pup motivated. For couch-potato pooches, hitting the streets may not be a welcome notion. Even for overweight or obese dogs, it is okay to use food as a motivator - just beware of what type of food. Read tomorrow's Nutrition Beat post for tips on healthy, lean, and tasty treats that will get your pup moving. Make the walk fun by giving lots of praise and pets. Reprimands and leash-jerking should be kept to a minimum; just as you would a child, you want to convey to your pup that exercise is FUN!
(3) Use the right equipment. If your dog turns every walk into the Iditarod, pulling you down Main Street with no regard for your pleas to slow down, it's time to invest in a nose collar (Gentle Leaders and Haltis are the most commonly used). Avoid extendible leashes, as they make it difficult for you to control your pup, and can be a disaster if he gets some momentum before reaching the end of the leash. You might consider a group class or a one-on-one session with a trainer to get some hands-on experience with a professional, as well.
Finally, remember to be consistent and to have fun! Getting in shape shouldn't be a burden - with a little resolve and a furry friend by your side, every step of the way can be a pleasure. And the reward? Better health, a longer life, and a happier pup. Really, what more could you ask for?
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