Weight Reduction Dog Food and Exercise Tips for a Healthy Weight

Thankfully, you can make a few lifestyle adjustments for your dog to help them get back to a healthy weight.

Dogs need adequate physical exercise for both their mental and physical health. A consistent, daily exercise routine that suits your dog's breed, size and age can help them shed excess weight and prevent gradual weight gain. In addition, it can help them sleep better, improve their mood, strengthen their bones and muscles and support their metabolism. It can do the same for you if you exercise alongside them, so it's a win-win!

Choose something you know you can do every day, like walking. Then, switch it up with other activities to keep things interesting, such as:

• Playing fetch

• Experimenting with agility training

• Training your dog to walk on a treadmill

• Swimming

• Hiking

• Jogging

• Scheduling playdates with other dogs

To lose weight, dogs need to burn more calories than they consume. However, if you simply feed your dog less of their regular food, the nutrient to calorie ratio may be imbalanced and lead to malnutrition over time. The goal is to reduce calories while keeping all other nutrients balanced.

Here are some tips for healthy calorie control:

• Weigh the food on a gram scale (this is more accurate than measuring cups).

• Ask your vet about low-calorie treat options.

• Talk to your vet about therapeutic nutrition options to support weight management.

Therapeutic nutrition to support weight management contains fewer calories while retaining all the important macro- and micronutrients. Some formulas may also include ingredients that increase fat burning, like L-carnitine. Your veterinarian can help you choose a food that meets your dog's needs.

Weight loss programs can be easily disrupted if people sneak-treat your dog. It's hard to resist those puppy eyes, but if your dog needs to lose weight to stay healthy, everyone in the household needs to be on board — even grandma. Try holding a short meeting to explain the goal and the consequences of giving your dog excess food or treats.

Remember: Your dog doesn't think or feel that you love them any less when you feed them smaller meals or fewer treats. An overweight dog generally isn't a healthy or happy dog. Substitute the fun you have sharing snacks with extra play and pets instead.

If you're having trouble helping your dog reach a healthy weight, contact your vet. Every dog loses weight differently, and working with a veterinary professional can keep you both on the right track so you can enjoy a healthy, happy life together.

How long does it take for a dog to lose weight?

If you follow your vet's nutrition and exercise plan, most healthy dogs can start slowly losing weight right away. The time it takes to achieve their goal weight depends on several factors, including how much weight your dog has to lose, how strictly you stick to the weight loss plan, your dog's age and reproductive status, and any health conditions that can affect weight loss, such as hormonal disorders.

What can I feed my overweight dog to lose weight?

A dog food for weight loss contains the proper amount of complete and balanced nutrition with fewer calories. Weight reduction dog food (dog food formulated to support weight management) works to boost metabolism and burn fat while preserving nutrient balance. Your vet can recommend a formula that meets your dog's needs.

How much should I feed my dog to lose weight?

In general, the amount you feed your dog should target a 1% to 2% loss in body weight per week. Most folks can help their dog lose weight by reducing their daily portion by 25% to 30%. Ask your veterinarian how much to feed your dog to achieve healthy weight loss, as reducing food too quickly can be harmful.