Did you know that obesity is one of the greatest health
risks among dogs? Obesity is caused by excessive eating and
unhealthy binges just as it is in humans. Often, this
situation is triggered by some environmental factors that may
lead to more problems when not controlled .
Like humans, dogs develop certain diseases when they are
overweight. These diseases, if not corrected, can lead to more
serious complications including death.
Here is a list of some of the repercussions of obesity
in dogs:
1. Arthritis Obesity in dogs tends to put extra weight on their
bones. In turn, the joints and other parts of the dog's bones
develop arthritis. Excess weight in dogs may also initiate the
development of other muscle and joint problems like spinal
disc disease, hip dysplasia, and cracks on the joint
ligaments.
2. Diabetes Like humans, dogs can get diabetes too. We all know
for a fact that overweight cause diabetes in humans. This can
also happen in dogs. The reason is that the more fat stored in
the dog's body, the greater its system will generate insulin
in order to cope up with its growing mass. Hence, dogs have
the tendency to resist too much insulin in the body. The end
result is diabetes.
3. Skin problems Obesity in dogs can cause some skin problems. This is
because excess fat deposits are being stored in their skin;
hence, their owners are having a hard time grooming them. When
dogs lack proper grooming, there is a tendency to accumulate
bacteria, dirt, or other elements that could cause harm to
your dog's skin. In the end, they develop rashes, skin
ruptures, and infections.
4. Capacity to tolerate heat With too much fat deposits accumulated in their skin,
dogs are more inclined to problems concerning heat tolerance.
This is because dogs find it hard to tolerate heat due to the
build-up of fats in their skin. That is why most obese dogs
are prone to heat stroke especially during summer time.
5. Respiratory problems and other heart diseases Like humans, obese dogs also have the tendency to
develop respiratory problems and heart diseases. This is
because the chest cavity is already covered with thick fat
deposits. Hence, whenever the dog breathes, the lungs are
having a hard time expanding and so does the heart. The
problem starts when the heart and the lungs can no longer
produce the right amount of oxygen and circulate it within the
dog's body.
6. Gastrointestinal problems Obesity in dogs causes some problems in their
intestines and pancreas. This problem results in an inflamed
pancreas which is very painful to the dog and can also cause
death.
7. Liver problems Fats are harder to strain and this can pose a problem
to the dog's liver. When the liver can no longer function well
because of the fat deposits that accumulated in the area,
liver problems may occur and may even cause the death of your
dog.
These health problems are indeed life threatening. It
depends upon the owner how to combat these problems in order
to keep your dog healthy. One of the greatest ways to solve
weight problems is a strict exercise schedule. It is a must
that owners create a healthy exercise schedule for their dogs.
This can be done by taking them for a walk every afternoon or
letting him run through a field.
The best thing about this program is that not only the dogs
get the chance to exercise but their owners as well. So, it's
a double benefit.
Next is to create a healthy diet for your dogs. Diet meals
are extremely important for dogs so that they can still obtain
the necessary nutrients they need in order to stay healthy.
This should include the right combination of fiber, meat,
vegetables, vitamins, and minerals. However, dog owners should
always keep in mind that when their dogs are taking fiber,
more water should be employed so as to prevent constipation.
Alternatively, dog owners should also remember that before
incorporating all of these things for your dog, it's best to
consult the veterinarian first.
For healthier and happier dogs, give them the best love and
care you can plus a great dietary regimen. As they say, a
healthy dog is a happy dog.
Jay is the web owner of
www.dog-training-tips.org Dog Training Tips, a website that provides information and resources on dog training, puppy training, and more.
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