Providing your pet nutritious meals is an essential part of pet care. However, some dog owners can accidentally overfeed their furry friend, causing them to be overweight. Much like humans, being overweight increases the risk of health issues and stresses your dog’s joints. If you want to ensure the life and longevity of your dog, below are a few strategies. 

What Pet Care Techniques Will Help a Dog Lose Weight?

1. Feed Them Properly

Many types of dry dog food contain a high amount of carbohydrates. While filling, these molecules contain excess calories, which can cause weight gain if your dog eats too much. To prevent this, reduce the amount of dry food you feed your pup and look for canned options that have more protein. This will ensure your dog has a healthy meal, without increasing their weight significantly. 

2. Provide Smaller Meals

If your dog is used to having food in their bowl at all hours, they may have trouble adjusting to a change. However, you shouldn’t skip their meals entirely. Instead, provide several small portions of high-protein dog food throughout the day, such as whenever you eat.

Smaller, more frequent meals ensure your pet doesn’t get hungry, without increasing the amount of food they eat. It can also have a positive effect on your pet’s metabolism, which will help them lose weight more quickly.

3. Exercise Regularly

All dogs must stay active to be healthy. If your dog loves to lay around the house, try to get them outside for at least 20 minutes of physical activity. You can do this by taking them on a walk or tossing a ball for a game of fetch.

If your dog is already active, increase their physical activity to at least an hour a day. One of the best ways to do this is to take them on a hike in a nearby park or trail. If your dog is older or has health issues, check with your veterinarian before changing their exercise regimen.

When you have pet care questions, contact Pet Care Specialists in Columbus, NE. They have more than 22 years of experience providing kind and knowledgeable care to local animals. Along with services like spaying/neutering and vaccinations, they also provide insight into your pet’s dietary needs and how to increase activity safely. If your dog experiences an illness or medical condition, they’ll perform diagnostic testing to help them feel better. Learn more about their pet care services online. Call (402) 564-3565 to schedule an appointment today.