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Is My Small-breed Dog Overweight?
Is My Small-breed Dog Overweight?

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Is My Small-breed Dog Overweight?

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Worried that your small-breed dog is packing on the pounds? Run your hands along his backbone. You should be able to feel (but not see) his ribs. You also should see a clearly defined waist behind the ribs. If you can’t, follow these seven tips from Debra Eldredge, a veterinarian and co-author of “Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook,” published by Howell Book House.

 

1. See the Vet

Before you put your overweight dog on a diet, schedule an appointment with the vet to make sure an underlying health problem isn’t causing the numbers on the scale to creep up.

 

 

2. Think beyond Mealtime

Snacks and table scraps might account for your overweight dog’s bulging belly, Eldredge says. If curtailing in-between meals doesn’t make a difference, consider continuing with the same amount of food but switching to a different formula. Your vet can give you guidance.

 

 

3. Give Him Veggies

Thawed frozen green beans, canned pumpkin (which is fiber-rich and filling) and cut-up carrots make satisfying, low-calorie snacks for your pet.

Apart from veggies feed them food high in nutrition. Check out the article that talks about nutritional needs of small breed dogs.

 

 

4. Redo the Numbers

A study showed that dogs can count up to six or seven, Eldredge says. If he is accustomed to getting two small biscuits as a treat, break one biscuit into two pieces. By his count, he’s still getting two treats!

 

 

5. Rethink Rewards

As much as your overweight dog loves treats, he also loves taking walks, playing and spending time with you. You also can replace biscuits with a couple of pieces of the kibble he would get during mealtime.

 

 

6. Do the Hunger Test

Is your bichon staring up at you with those beautiful eyes as you nibble on peanuts? He’s probably not hungry. As you have your snack, offer him a piece of kibble. If he turns it down, he’s not really hungry — he just wants your peanuts!

 

 

7. Put Him on the Scale

If your overweight dog has just a couple of pounds to lose, it can be hard to gauge whether he is making progress. Ask your clinic if it’s OK if you stop in once a week so he can step onto the doctor’s scale.

  • Puppy Basics: Feeding Tips and Tricks
    Puppy Basics: Feeding Tips and Tricks
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    How Much To Feed A Puppy?

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    As a new puppy parent, you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information available on properly feeding your furry friend. But don't worry – we are here to help! In this blog post, we will share tips and tricks on puppy feeding, so your canine companion gets all the nourishment it needs to grow and thrive.

    First and foremost, it's important to follow a consistent feeding schedule for puppies. This will help them get used to regular meals and prevent them from developing bad habits like begging for food. It's also essential to choose a high-quality puppy food formulated specifically for their age and size. Look for options containing real, wholesome ingredients and avoid anything packed with fillers or additives.

    Overfeeding your puppy can lead to obesity and other health issues. It's also important to pay attention to portion sizes. And if you need help with how much to feed a puppy, feel free to ask your veterinarian for guidance.

    Puppy feeding chart: A guide to proper portion sizes and meal schedules for your furry friend

    Puppies have specific nutritional needs that change as they grow and develop. It is crucial to ensure they get the right amount of food at the right time. Our puppy feeding guide is designed to help you determine the appropriate serving size for your puppy based on age and weight. Following these guidelines ensures that your puppy gets the nutrition it needs to thrive and stay healthy.

    [Puppy Feeding Chart]

    Discover the perfect puppy feeding plan: How much and how many times to feed a puppy

    Puppies are energetic and adorable little creatures, but they also require proper nutrition to grow and develop properly. So, how much should you feed a puppy?

    Firstly, it's important to consider the size and breed of your puppy. Larger breeds will need more food, while smaller breeds will need less. It's also important to consider the puppy's age. Puppies under 12 weeks of age should be fed four times a day, while puppies over 12 weeks of age should be fed three times a day.

    Regarding the amount of food, it's best to follow the guidelines on your puppy's food label. These guidelines are based on the puppy's weight and age and will ensure that your puppy is getting the right amount of nutrients. It's also essential to choose a high-quality puppy food developed specifically for puppies, as this will provide all the nutrients you puppy needs.

    It's also important to remember that puppies have small stomachs and may need to eat smaller meals more frequently. If your puppy seems hungry between meals, you can offer them a small, healthy snack, such as a piece of cooked chicken or a small amount of carrot.

    In summary, feeding your puppy the right amount of food at the correct time is important. Follow the guidelines on your puppy's food label and choose high-quality puppy food to ensure that your furry friend gets the nutrients required to grow into a healthy dog. Remember to consider your puppy's size and age, and offer small, healthy snacks as needed. Your puppy will grow into a healthy and happy dog with proper feeding.

    Transitioning tour puppy to adult food: The right time to make the switch

    The general rule of thumb is to switch your puppy to adult food when they reach around 80% of its expected adult size. This usually occurs when it is 12 to 18 months old, depending on the breed. Smaller breeds tend to reach adult size faster, while larger breeds may take longer.

    To determine when your puppy is ready for the switch, it's important to pay attention to their body condition and weight. If your puppy is still growing rapidly and has a lot of energy, they are probably still being prepared for adult food. On the other hand, if they are starting to slowdown in growth and seem to be reaching their adult size, it's time to make the switch.

    It's also a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for advice on when to switch your puppy to adult food. They can help you determine the best time based on your puppy's specific needs and growth rate.

    In general, choosing high-quality adult food that is appropriate for your puppy's size and breed is imperative. Look for a formula rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support their overall health and development. With careful planning and attention, you can ensure that your puppy grows into a healthy, happy adult dog.

     

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