Do You Pamper Your Dog?

It is estimated that nearly 40% of dogs are obese in the U.S.
Why are there so many fat dogs?

Pampering your dog is more popular now than ever. Jeweled collars, canopy beds, complete wardrobes, doggy daycare and gourmet treats are the norm for today's spoiled dogs. All this pampering has led pets to start packing on the pounds.

Pet obesity is on the rise and spoiled pooches are leading the pack. The unhealthy effects of obesity are similar for people and pets.

Excess weight can lead to an increased risk for diseases like Diabetes; complicate problems like arthritis; and is linked to certain types of cancer – not to mention making them uncomfortable.

Why Are So Many Dogs Spoiled Into Obesity?

Many people barely have enough time for themselves, let alone their pets. This means quality time with dog becomes extremely infrequent. With little time to show your dog how much you love him or her, special treats become a means of compensation. For others, it may not be a matter of time but of love. For many dog crazy owners, their dogs are their kids. They want to pamper their dog with tons of love and special treats. There are tons of gourmet treats available!

Doggy birthday cakes, frosted jumbo bones, and giant jerky treats are some of the extravagant goodies. Although luxury pet treats are becoming bigger and fancier, other alternatives exist for spoiling your dog.

Healthy Ways to Spoil Your Dog

There are healthier ways to spoil you dog that can still show your pet that you love him or her without helping them pack on the pounds. Here are some suggestions:

Trade up for healthier treats. Fresh baby carrots are a great, low-calorie alternative to fatty biscuits and permit the frequent treat-giving that many dogs have become accustomed to.

Make them work for it. Interactive toys keep dogs busy while rewarding them with small treats throughout the play activity. For already obese dogs, using pieces of their regular dog food as treats is helpful.

Forget the treats and get moving. Increasing play time with your dog can greatly increase calories burned in a day. Spoiling your dog does not have to involve food. Playing ball, going for a run or visiting a dog park are fun and healthful ways to interact with your pet.

Changing the trend of spoiled, obese pets requires a change in perception of pampering. It is important to understand that keeping a pet healthy is the best treatment of all.

Is Your Dog Fat?

Diet and nutritional status are crucial to your dog's general health. Unfortunately, many pets are overweight – much like their owners. And – like their owners – pets are not as healthy when they are carrying too much weight. Chubby dogs often suffer from arthritis and heart disease. If you are concerned that your pet is overweight, here are some ways you can evaluate your pet's body condition.

Body fat. Stand behind him and place your thumbs on the spine midway down the back. Fan out your fingers and spread them over the ribs. With your thumbs lightly pressing on the spine and fingers on the ribs, slide your hands gently up and down.

In normal dogs there is a thin layer of fat. You can feel the ribs easily, although you won't see them. If your dog is overweight, you will not be able to readily feel the ribs, and the tissue over the ribs may feel smooth and wavy.

Appearance. Normal dogs have an hourglass appearance. Fat dogs have abdomens protruding from the sides, as well as enlarged fatty areas on either side of the tail base and over the hips. A fatty area may also be present on the neck and front of the chest. When obese dogs walk, they may have a classic waddle.

If you feel that your dog is obese, contact your veterinarian. Tests may need to be performed to eliminate underlying disease as a cause of the obesity. In addition, your veterinarian can help you improve your dog's body condition and overall health.

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