Dogs and humans are very similar in their problems with obesity. Obesity in dogs, like humans, is caused by excessive eating and lack of exercise. Dogs, like humans, can develop certain diseases when they are overweight. These diseases can lead to serious complications including death.
Arthritis
Obesity in dogs puts extra weight on their bones. This extra weight on the joints and other parts of the dog?s bones may cause the dog to develop arthritis. Excess weight in dogs may also lead to the development of other muscle and joint problems like hip dysplasia, spinal disc disease, and cracks on the joint ligaments.
Skin problems
Obesity in dogs can also cause some skin problems. This is because excess fat deposits are being stored in their skin which make it more difficult for their owners to groom them. When dogs lack proper grooming, there is a tendency to accumulate bacteria, dirt, or other elements that could cause harm to your dog?s skin. This can lead to the development of rashes, skin ruptures, and infections.
Diabetes
Like humans, dogs can get diabetes. We all know for a fact that excessive weight can cause diabetes in humans, and this fact is also true for dogs. This is because the more fat is stored in the dog?s body, the greater its system will generate insulin in order to cope with its growing mass. Hence, dogs have the tendency to resist too much insulin in the body. The end result is diabetes.
Respiratory problems and other heart diseases
Like humans, obese dogs have also the tendency to develop respiratory problems and heart diseases. This is because the chest cavity is already covered with thick fat deposits. When the dog breathes, the lungs are having a harder time expanding, and so does the heart. The problem starts when the heart and the lungs can no longer produce the right amount of oxygen and circulate it within the dog?s body.
Gastrointestinal problems
Obesity in dogs causes some problems in their intestines and pancreas. This results in inflamed pancreas, which is very painful to the dogs and could cause them to die.
Liver problems
Fats are harder 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 accumulated in the area, liver problems may occur and may even cause the death of your dog.
Capacity to tolerate heat
With too much fat deposits accumulated in their skin, dogs are more inclined to problems concerning heat tolerance. The build of fat in the skin makes it more difficult to deal with heat and is why most obese dogs are prone to heat stroke especially during summer time.
How to Solve Weight Problems
These health problems are indeed life threatening. It depends upon the owner to combat these problems in order to keep their dog healthy.
One of the greatest ways in solving weight problems is a strict exercise schedule. It is important that owners create a healthy exercise schedule for their dogs. This can be done by taking them for a walk every day or letting your dog run through a field. The best thing about this program is that not only does the dog get the chance to exercise but so does the owner! So, it?s a double result with just one purpose.
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. This 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 fiber, more water should be employed so as to prevent constipation.
Dog owners should also remember that before incorporating all of these things in your dogs routine, it?s best to consult the veterinarian first. This way you are assured the proper methods of dieting specifically for your dog.
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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