People may not be aware of this, but obesity is a huge problem that dogs are dealing with these days. Doggy obesity, as in humans, is caused by excessive eating, unhealthy binges, and a lack of exercise. For the most part, this situation is triggered by environmental factors that, when not controlled, may just lead to more problems.
Like humans, dogs develop certain diseases when they are overweight. These diseases can lead to more serious complications, including death! So for those who wish to know the repercussions of obesity in dogs, here are some of the known consequences:
1. Arthritis
Obesity in dogs tends to put extra weight on their bones. In turn, the joints and other parts of the dog’s bones develop arthritis.
Excess weight in dogs may also initiate the development of other muscle and joint problems like spinal disc disease, hip dysplasia, and cracks on the joint ligaments.
2. Diabetes
Like humans, dogs can get diabetes too. We all know for a fact that overweight can cause diabetes in humans, but this can also happen in dogs. This is because the more fat that is stored in the dog’s body, the greater the system will generate insulin in order to cope up with its growing mass. The end result is diabetes.
3. Skin problems
Obesity in dogs can cause some skin problems. Because excess fat deposits are being stored under their skin, owners are having a hard time grooming them. When dogs lacks proper grooming, there is a tendency to accumulate bacteria, dirt, or other elements that could cause harm to your dog’s skin. In the end, they develop rashes, skin ruptures, and infections.
4. Capacity to tolerate heat
With too many fat deposits, dogs are more inclined to problems concerning heat tolerance. Dogs find it hard to tolerate heat due to the build-up of fats in their skin. That is why many obese dogs are prone to heat stroke, especially during the summer time.
5. Respiratory problems and other heart diseases
Like humans, obese dogs also have the tendency to develop respiratory problems and heart diseases. This is because the chest cavity is clogged with thick fat deposits. Whenever the dog breathes, the lungs have a hard time expanding, and so does the heart. The problem gets worse when the heart and the lungs can no longer produce the right amount of oxygen and circulate it within the dog’s body.
6. Gastrointestinal problems
Obesity in dogs causes some problems in their intestines and pancreas. This problem can result in an inflamed pancreas, which is very painful to a dog and can also cause death.
7. Liver problems
Fats are hard to strain and this can pose a great problem to the dog’s liver. When the liver can no longer function well because of the fat deposits that have accumulated in the area, liver problems may occur and again may lead to the death of your beloved dog.
These health problems are indeed life threatening. It is up to the owner to combat these problems in order to keep their dogs healthy.
One of the best ways to solve a dog’s weight problems is with a strict exercise plan. Owners should create a healthy exercise schedule for their dogs, and stick to it. This can be done by taking them for a walk every afternoon or letting them run through a field.
The best thing about this program is that not only the dog gets the chance to exercise, but their owners as well!
Next is to create a healthy diet for your dogs. Diet meals are extremely important for dogs so that they can still obtain the necessary nutrients they need in order to stay healthy. Their meals should include the right combination of fiber, meat, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals.
However, dog owners should always keep in mind that when their dogs are taking in more fiber, more water should be employed so as to prevent constipation.
Dog owners should also remember that before incorporating all of these things for their dog, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian first. In this way, only the proper methods of doggy-dieting shall be employed.
So, for healthier and happier dogs, give them the best love and care you can give plus a great dietary regimen. As they say, a healthy dog is a happy dog.
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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
My vet told me my dog was overweight. I started feeding him a diet formula and taking him for long walks everyday. He has lost weight but it seems like he is always hungry.