We’re all guilty of packing on pounds during the winter season, and our dogs are no exception. While a little extra weight on a human may not look like much, just a couple of additional pounds on your dog can really affect his health. Exercise not only keeps your dog physically fit, but mentally as well. With spring rapidly approaching, the American Kennel Club (AKC®) offers the following tips for safely helping your dog drop his winter weight gain.
- Check with your dog’s veterinarian before starting any new exercise routine. Have your dog “weigh in” at the vet to determine how much weight he needs to lose. You need to consider your dog’s age, health, and current activity level, and a vet checkup will start your dog on the right track.
- Simply letting your dog out in the backyard doesn’t qualify as exercise. Try playing a good game of fetch with him.
- Start your new exercise regimen slowly to build up your dog’s endurance. Just like humans, exercising too much too quickly can result in injury for your dog.
- When you are out exercising with your dog, try to stay on grass or an earthy surface. Sharp gravel surfaces can be hard on your dog’s paws.
- Dogs can suffer from heat stroke, so if your dog begins to pant rapidly, stop exercising immediately.
Were all guilty of packing on pounds during the winter season, and our dogs are no exception. …