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6 Tips To Keep Your Senior Dog Fit

Senior dogs are more prone to become obese because they do not exercise as much as they used to, they have less energy, and their metabolism has slowed down with age.

It is very important that you prevent your senior dog from getting fat, because once he does it is very difficult to lower his weight, and an overweight dog has an increased risk of developing diabetes, liver problems, and joint pain.

Here are 6 tips to help you control your senior dog’s weight:

Modify his diet

If your dog is getting fat it is because he is consuming more calories than he is using.

Ask your vet about your dog’s caloric needs, choose the right senior dog food, and know how much your dog should eat.

The best senior dog food will contain a good amount of fiber and just the right amount of fat to ensure the skin and coat do not suffer when he loses weight.

In addition, reduce or substitute snacks and treats for something healthier.

Plan his meals

Make a plan to feed your dog several small meals during the day instead of a single huge one¾in this way you won’t have to give him so many treats¾and always use his bowl to feed him, so that he does not accept anything that is not served in it.

Make him exercise

Your dog may be older, but he can still exercise. Design a regular exercise routine for him - and you - that will help him lose calories, decrease his appetite, modify his body constitution, and accelerate his metabolism.

Change your behavior

Yes… you are responsible for your dog’s obesity problem, because you have allowed it to happen and have probably contributed greatly to it happening.

Stop giving your dog all those treats and stop sharing your food with him; all he needs to be happy and healthy is good senior dog food… and more importantly, give him the chance to exercise.

Do not allow him inside the dinning room while you eat

If your pal is there while you eat, he will want you to share your food with him. Leave him in another room during the meals.

Instead of food, give you old pal some attention

Maybe you’re feeding him lots of treats so that he’s entertained while you work or rest, or perhaps giving him food is your way of showing him how much you love him; however, you are making him sick by doing this.

If you want to enjoy your pal’s company for a long time, tend to him: take him out on walks, take him to the park, and play with him; make him a part of your life and do not feeding him snacks to keep him at bay or entertained while you take care of your things.

~ Staff, SeniorDogs.com

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