When it comes to dogs, there are breeds of all different shapes and sizes, but whether you have a bulldog or a Labrador, it is important that your pet maintains a healthy weight. Unfortunately, it can be difficult for dog owners to recognize when their pups are putting on extra pounds, but even a small increase on the scale can make a difference. For small breeds like Pomeranians, just one excess pound is equal to 20 to 21 extra pounds on a 5-foot-4-inch woman.
In 2015, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found that 54 percent of dogs were considered overweight, which means the majority of pups aren’t as healthy as they could be. We’ve partnered with Purina Pro Plan SIMPLY FIT to help you determine if your furry friend is at a healthy weight. And to explain the simple steps you can do to evaluate your dog at home, we called up Dr. Ernie Ward, a veterinarian who has studied pet obesity for 13 years.
The most important thing to do if you feel like your dog is too heavy after a home evaluation is to get them to the vet, so they can determine if your pup falls in a healthy weight range.
“If you even think your pet is overweight, it probably is,” said Dr. Ward. “We all have that sixth sense when it comes to our pets. If you think your dog has gained weight, chances are they have and they might have a problem.”
As Dr. Ward explained, keeping your dog at a healthy weight is not just about appearance; it’s also about quality of life. The sooner you identify a weight problem, the sooner you can get your dog on track to reaching his or her healthy and happy weight.
If your dog is too heavy, Purina Pro Plan SIMPLY FIT may be a great option to help them lose those extra pounds. Unlike the traditional weight loss method of Continuous Calorie Restriction, the SIMPLY FIT system varies calorie intake over time, NOT portion size. This innovative weight loss system can help your pet shed extra pounds and rediscover their best self.