Four steps to a healthier little dog

Weight management is essential for a long, healthy life. Even a little extra weight can be a big problem for little dogs. By taking just four steps toward achieving and maintaining ideal body weight, you can boost the overall health and wellness of your small or toy breed dog.

1. Track your dog's weight
Losing weight can propel your dog toward better health, but only if the weight is lost in a healthy, controlled manner. To make sure your dog is losing weight at a normal pace, make sure to weigh your pet regularly, use a weight tracking chart to track your dog's progress, and assess your dog's body condition score regularly. Keep in mind that most veterinarians' offices have a scale available to use free of charge.

2. Include healthy activity
When you feed precisely balanced dog food, you know your dog will be eating healthy. However, your dog's weight management program isn't complete without a healthy amount of physical activity. Whether it's romping around indoors or a walk in the park, make sure your dog is getting the physical activity he needs to get and stay healthy.

3. Visit your veterinarian often
Make frequent visits to your veterinarian to ensure that your pet's weight management program is going smoothly. Your veterinarian knows your pet's ideal weight, how fast he should be losing weight and which foods are best for each stage of the weight management plan.

4. Maintain an ideal weight for life
Your small or toy breed dog's weight management plan shouldn't be temporary. Once your dog has attained ideal weight, switch to a simple weight maintenance plan that consists of regular exercise and proper nutrition. Maintaining ideal weight is very important for:

• supporting the long life expectancy your small or toy breed dog enjoys
• promoting healthy joints and mobility
• promoting ideal heart function

An important note about small or toy breed puppies. A weight loss plan is never a safe option for puppies unless your veterinarian recommends it. If you are concerned that your puppy has a weight problem, see your veterinarian – do not simply begin feeding weight management dog food.