The Importance of a Balanced Diet
Just like humans, dogs thrive on a balanced diet that provides all the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy and energetic. A well-formulated diet lays the foundation for strong muscles and bones, a shiny coat, a robust immune system, and plenty of energy in their step.
Perhaps your dog enjoys eating a little too much, or they enjoy overindulging in the treats. It’s understandable as a pet owner, to want to give our furry companions little treats here and there, but it’s important to monitor their food intake and even what type of food they’re eating.
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The Benefits of a Balanced Diet
Optimal Growth and Development: Especially important for puppies, a balanced diet ensures they have the nutrients needed for proper growth and development of bones, muscles, and organs.
Strong Immune System: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps your dog fight off infections and stay healthy.
Healthy Weight Management: The right balance of nutrients helps maintain a healthy weight, preventing obesity and its associated health risks.
Improved Energy Levels: A diet formulated for your dog's activity level provides sustained energy for playtime, walks, and adventures.
Healthy Skin and Coat: Essential fatty acids and vitamins promote a shiny coat, and healthy skin, and can even help with allergies.
Overall Well-being: When your dog receives the proper nutrition, they'll be happier, more energetic, and less prone to health problems.
Veterinary Recommended Dog Food
The vets at Sandhole are happy to advise on the best diet and brands of food for your dog. Depending on their breed, their age and any conditions they may be prone to, your dog’s diet should support their health and offer a balanced diet. If your pet is overweight, following a stricter diet or reducing food portions could help your dog lose weight.
How Many Treats is Too Many?
If your dog is treat trained, they receive a reward for doing something good, such as sitting when told to or running to you on demand. It’s a good idea that once these training techniques are set into place, you reduce the intake of your pet's treats so that they aren’t reliant on receiving one every time they do something. Switching a treat for affection or a toy they love are good options!
Some dog treats can be good for their dental health, like chew sticks which reduce plaque but taste good for your pet! Discuss which treats are appropriate with your vet and be wary of how often you are giving them treats. If they’re already overweight, feeding a healthier alternative or cutting back would be recommended.
When is a Dog Considered Overweight?
If your dog looks visually bigger or different in shape, then having them checked over by our vets would be for the best as we’ll also take their weight measurements and assess their muscle-to-fat ratio. If they’re large for their age or breed, or even underweight, then your vet will advise you best on the next steps. To help your dog lose weight, they can be recommended certain exercises, changes in routines, and a new and improved diet for better weight management. Sandhole believes in preventative care methods that promote a healthier lifestyle to avoid situations like overweight pets, who may suffer from avoidable health complications.
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Exercises to Help Your Dog Lose Weight
A walk a day keeps the doctor away. Exercise is paramount for all dogs, and to remain healthy, happy and mobile, regular exercise in different forms promotes overall well-being. Walking your dog twice a day is ideal, and it can contribute to better sleeping patterns too when they’re more worn out. Other exercises such as dog agility, playing fetch and even mental stimulation like scented games or puzzle toys keep their brains active and sharp.
Could There Be an Underlying Health Condition?
If your dog is eating more than usual or appears hungry, then it could be that their food needs switching up with something slightly different; or it could be an indicator that they have an underlying health condition.
With regular health checks, your vet can examine your dog to ensure they’re at a good weight and that their coat and skin are healthy. If they are a breed that is prone to health conditions such as hip dysplasia, then keeping them at a healthy weight is significant. Overweight dogs can suffer from inflammation in the joints, poor breathing abilities and even shorter life spans.
If you're concerned about your dog's weight, consult your veterinarian. They can help you create a safe and effective weight loss plan for your furry friend.
Veterinary Care in Ashby
Call us on 01530 412035