As we welcome in a new year, many of us start to consider the benefits of a healthier lifestyle after weeks of overindulging during the festive period, but maybe these thoughts should not be confined to just humans!
Our dogs too may have gained a few pounds from tasty tidbits passed silently under the table by various family members, and with the onset of colder weather outdoor exercise may have become shorter and less frequent.
Reports indicate that between 30% and 60% of all dogs are overweight so it is more important than ever we keep our dogs happy and healthy. One of the most serious findings in obesity studies that has been proven to be related to being overweight in both humans and dogs is a reduced lifespan.
Certain breeds are more predisposed to weight gain and need to be monitored more closely. However, any breed may tend to gain weight given the opportunity.
If you are unsure whether your pet is a healthy weight, the Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA) have a useful guide call the Dog Size-O-Meter on their website or speak to your vet.
The important thing to remember is that many of the problems associated with being overweight are reversible, and as with humans, the two factors that should be addressed are diet and exercise.
If you’re contemplating a weight management program for your dog, it’s important as a household to be open about feeding and consider keeping a food diary for your dog. How many people in the household are feeding your dog? Are you weighing you dogs’ food in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines for their age and weight or guessing measures? Are you and other family members giving treats mindlessly on top of their regular diet?
A weight-controlled diet doesn’t have to mean a compromise on taste. Always choose a balanced, good quality complete food to ensure your dog is getting all the daily nutrients they need. Fish4Dogs Finest Complete dry food is made using only fish as the protein source. Fish is a highly palatable, exceptionally high-quality protein, low in saturated fats and sugars, so may be a suitable lower-fat alternative to some complete foods produced from meat proteins.
While a good quality complete dry food diet is delicious and nutritionally balanced, many dog owners worry their dog’s diet lacks interest and moisture, often leading them to add unhealthy extras. An alternative is to slightly reduce the amount of kibble and add a topper from the Fish4Dogs Finest Complementary range of mousse.
Fish4Dogs Finest Light Cod Mousse is deliciously appetizing and can tempt even the fussiest of dogs. This complementary treat is made from 99% quality Icelandic cod with only 63 calories per 100g. It can be enjoyed on its own as a treat, or as a topper on dry food. With 60% lower calories than our Salmon and Trout flavored mousses, it’s perfect as a tasty, healthier choice.
Your dog should still receive treats for training and reward when following a weight management program, as its vital for mental stimulation and development. However, the type of treats you choose could dramatically alter their calorie intake and ultimately their weight. One of the ways you can help reduce hidden calories is through choosing healthy, low-calorie, high-quality treats.
Fish4Dogs treats are made from healthy, natural, minimal ingredients with no hidden extras.
The Fish4Dogs training treats range is designed to be used little and often. Salmon Bites and White Fish freeze dried treats contain just 1 calorie per treat!
Fish4Dogs Dental Sea Jerky is made from 100% baked fish skins, formed into 6 different shapes to suit all dog breeds and sizes. With an average of just 3 calories for the smallest shape, not only are they healthy and low fat, they are also naturally abrasive to help remove plaque and minimise tartar build up. But don’t just take our word for it! Sea Jerky has recently been awarded ‘Best Treat 2023’ by the readers of Your Dog magazine, the UK’s leading consumer dog magazine for the 7th time in the awards’ history!
Fish4Dogs food and treats are available to buy online at www.fish4dogsus.com.
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