Top Tips To Reduce Dog Obesity
Posted by Wolf & I Co. on Mar 14, 2024
We couldn't stop eating the ham and drank more than we should, but is your dog feeling the festive pinch too?
It's often a time to relax and share some good times with family and friends, but when our routine goes out the window, our dogs exercise program sometimes does too!
To celebrate National Walk Your Dog Month, we share our top tips to get back on that exercise train with your dog in the hope that we all lose some of that Christmas pudding from our expanding waistlines asap!
1. Go for a morning walk
The simple morning walk has a few benefits and your buddy will love you for it! Firstly, setting off on a walk first thing when you rise is a great way for your dog to burn off that morning energy and even relieve themselves of the nights wee wee or poo poo they’ve been holding in.
It's a great way to boost the metabolism (not only your dog but your own) and you'll both start burning those calories from the night before. So up ya get ya lazy sausages, whack on those sneakers and hit the pavement for some walks pre breakfast!
2. Socialise your dog
Your dog needs friends too. We can’t all sit around by ourselves all day and nor can your dog! Hit the dog park and let the butt sniffing begin!
Bonus here is, you will get some exercise and it will get you both outdoors and who knows you may even meet a new bestie! (Yes you mum and dad).
3. Put extra effort into meal time
Dogs are like clockwork. They know when meal time is and they sure know how to let you know it's time for a treato.
Instead of simply feeding your dog, why not make it a positive training session. Throw some commands before dinner make them sit, wait, stay, even shake hands. It's some positive training for your dog and they will love the interaction.
Portion sizes need to be carefully considered here especially if you haven’t been able to exercise your dog as much as normal. Consult with your vet if unsure of the recommended daily food intake for your pup.
4. Yard space
Does your pup have enough room to roam? It's easy to forget in our busy lives that our best friends need some room to move too. Is it possible to make the run a bit bigger? Can you move it to a different area of the yard to mix things up a bit?
Dogs love new smells and some space to chase that ball so get ya fencing kit out and see if you can give a bit more room for Fido.
5. Visit the local footy field
Our public spaces offer a fantastic opportunity for our dogs to enjoy a run and play!
Often large grassy areas are free from people and other dogs making footy ovals the perfect area to do some training, play some fetch or run around with your dog. Check the oval allows dogs before rocking up and be a good dog parent and be sure to pick up any doo doos.
6. Get a new ball or toy
Present time! We love it and we bet your dog loves it too. A new ball is like kryptonite to Superman. Those annoying squeaky fluffy toys do the trick too! Some serious energy can be burned exploring a new toy for a few hours - treat games are the goods as well. Get creative and give your dog something to expend all that mental and physical energy!
7. Bike ride
Got the deadly treadly in the garage? Pump up those tyres and head out for a spin! With some basic lead training on the footpath, a bike can be a great way to exercise your dog at a more constant canine speed.
Be sure to take necessary precautions and avoid heavy traffic areas, but an empty estate or a park with a bike path could be a goer! It's a win win too, as this activity will get you moving and who doesn’t enjoy a bike ride?
8. Dog walkers
Life can get hectic. We get it. But don’t let that be an excuse for inactivity with your dog. Search the local papers and you will be surprised at the amount of dog walkers in your area. Many sites have reviews and ratings so you can be sure your besties is in good hands. It's definitely a good option for those with a busy five day schedule. Your pup will love the extra outing and look fit in next to no time!
With over 41% of dogs in Australia leading towards obesity, we hope our top tips help you and your dog stay out of the statistics.
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