06/10/2024
It is so important and kinder to keep your dogs weight at a sensible level. Fat releases pro inflammatory markers which make underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis more painful and irritated. The risk of chronic disease is also increased due to properties within fat. Excess weight increase load through joints - compromising a dysfunctional joint further, accelerating wear. Body condition charts exist, grading a dogs body weight to 9 grades. I have attached a copy of this chart which Canine Arthritis Management kindly gave permission to use. Please do check your dogs body condition. This guide can be applied to all breeds by concentrating on the waist and rib area for assessment so don't worry if you have a giant, toy, greyhound or a stocky breed. The same rule can be applied.
There will be many reasons to why a dogs weight is excessive, one common reason is overfeeding - whether by guessing meal weights or feeding treats throughout the day. Please weight your dogs meals. It is so easy to give your dog an extra meal or two over the course of a week, even if the scoop looks the same level when serving the meal. This is the number one accidental weight increase. If you love to feed your dogs treats - and why not!, reserve some kibble from their meal to give them during the day This way it is not extra on top of their allowance.
Short term actions results in long-term kindness