A Guide to Managing Healthy Weight in Your Dog This Summer

With the approaching summer season, humans and pets both have to bear the brunt of scorching days. As a responsible dog parent, you must pay heed to your dog’s health, especially their weight, during these months. Just like humans, dogs might experience discomfort from the heat. Thus, maintaining an optimum weight becomes even more important in the season.

Are you wondering, “Why do I need to manage my dog’s weight in the season? Well, it’s pretty simple. Like humans, canines experience discomfort from the heat, and being overweight only increases the problem.

Excess weight can exacerbate issues such as dehydration, fatigue, and overheating, making it difficult for canines to enjoy the season. With summer comes outdoor activities and temptations such as picnics, which could result in overindulgence and weight gain if not managed properly.

The prevalence of overweight dogs is high across the different U.S. states. For instance, dogs in Pennsylvania have gained the tag of being the most overweight in the country. Moreover, dogs in this state, on average, have 18 pounds more than dogs in other states. The findings, extracted from a survey performed by Veterinarians.org, showcase the growing menace of the condition.

Such trends call for urgent measures to address the weight management issue in dogs. This blog aims to explore a few tips to help you manage your dog’s weight during the upcoming summer.

Implementing a balanced diet is important to ensure a healthy weight in your dog this summer. To do this, you should look for high-quality dog food that is suitable for your dog’s age and activity level.

One option that can help you achieve an ideal weight for your dog could be Hill's r/d canned dog food. This product is particularly formulated by a veterinarian to promote healthy weight loss in your furry friend. Its appealing texture makes it easier for you to provide an enhanced feeding experience to your pet. Plus, the food is well-supported to support cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

According to PetCareRx, this wet dog food contains L-carnitine which is vital for weight management in canines. L-carnitine is an amino acid proven for its beneficial role in fatty acid metabolism. Moreover, this canned food also contains lysine which improves its overall nutritional value. Lysine is an essential amino acid that helps in immune function and protein synthesis.

Once you select the right food, the next step is to set up a feeding schedule and portion control. Rather than leaving food out all day, consider giving it at particular times, mainly twice a day. Don’t forget to give only recommended portions as mentioned on the packaging or suggested by your veterinarian. Avoid overfeeding as it can lead to abrupt weight gain.

You must incorporate physical activities in your dog’s daily routine in order to maintain a healthy dog’s weight this summer. Start with 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity every day by considering factors like your pet’s age, health status, breed, etc. You can consider activities like jogging, playing fetch, or brisk walks, all of which are crucial to keeping your canine physically active.

Along with traditional activities, you can also consider blending your dog’s exercise with activities like agility training or swimming. Along with providing physical exercise, these activities provide mental stimulation, which is necessary for your pet’s overall health. Don’t forget to adjust the intensity of exercise to the needs and abilities of your four-legged friend.

Moreover, consistency is key if you want to maintain a healthy weight with regular exercise. With consistency, your pooch gets the required exercise to burn calories and maintain an optimum weight. 

According to a recent survey conducted by OnePoll, a large number of pet owners have taken New Year’s resolutions for 2024. Among these resolutions, 71% of pet owners have decided to exercise more with their pets. The findings showcase the importance of regular physical activity, especially in summer when pets are prone to fatigue and other health issues.

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Like humans, your furry friend needs more hydration during the summer months. Failing to provide an ample amount of water can lead to dehydration and ultimately result in overfeeding, causing your pet to put on extra weight. It’s crucial to provide only fresh and clean water to your furry friend during humid climates and after exercise. Closely track their daily water intake for optimum weight management.

Providing the right amount of water is particularly important with the rising health issues among canines. A large number of pet owners complain about the behavior of their dogs as they reach 21 months, which they acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, roughly 20% of owners noted eight or more behavior problems in their furry friends.

The source of these issues could be different. However, one thing is clear: clean water will cleanse out any toxins in your pooch’s body. This, in turn, improves your dog’s immunity to fight against the diseases. The findings, taken from a study by the Royal Veterinary College, call for the urgent need to consult with a vet.

Related reading: Do Dogs Drink More Water in the Summer

During the summer months, you should closely monitor your dog’s treat intake to manage their weight. Consider limiting the number of treats you give your pet and choose healthy alternatives whenever possible. It’s also important to opt for treats that are particularly crafted for weight management.

Steer clear of overindulgence with treats as dogs are usually less active and more prone to weight gain during summer months. Rather than giving treats as a main form of reward, consider other options like toys, praise, or affection to initiate good behavior. You can also break treats into many pieces to increase the consumption time and decrease overall calorie intake.

According to a recent survey by the USA TODAY Blueprint, many pet owners are experiencing struggles in caring for their pets. In fact, about 55% of pet owners have postponed or reduced the number of visits to veterinarians. However, this attitude might become extremely costly down the road if the underlying problems are not diagnosed timely.

Thus, you must consult with your vet to get tailored guidance for managing your pet’s health weight. During these visits, you can discuss your pooch’s exercise routine, diet, issues, etc. Based on your pet’s health status, the vet will provide personalized advice on how to achieve optimum weight. 

In conclusion, your furry friend can only enjoy the summer season if he is in ideal weight condition. By implementing these tips, you can help your pet to be in the best condition and stay happy during the warmer months. It’s important to regularly adjust your care routine to keep your pet in tip-top shape all summer long.

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