Despite the fact that 17.9 percent of U.S. dogs are obese and 35.1 percent are overweight, according to the National Pet Obesity Awareness Day Survey, pet owners have a hard time admitting that their dogs are overweight or obese. A new study suggests that the best way for dogs to lose weight is to combine diet with exercise.
Overweight dogs are also more likely to suffer from medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, lung disorders, high blood pressure, and cancerous tumors. A recent study proved, however, that maintaining dogs' ideal body weight would help them live two years longer, as cited by the Dog Food Advisor.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association reveals that the best way for dogs to lose weight is to follow a controlled exercise plan and a dietary weight loss program. Following the mentioned specifics will not only help dogs lose weight but also prevent the loss of lean body mass.
According to the study, overweight dogs were assigned to either two groups: FD (fitness and diet) group or DO (diet group). The dogs were then enrolled in a 12-week weight loss program, according to Pet MD.
Dogs in the FD group were exercised three times a week at the University Hospital for Companion Animals at the University of Copenhagen. The owners were also asked to increase their companion's daily activity levels at home.
Dogs in the DO group, on the other hand, were not instructed to exercise their dog during the entire study period. However, any spontaneous increase in their pets' activity should not be restricted.
All dogs part of the study were given a commercial low-fat, high-protein, dry diet. At the end of 12 weeks, mean weight loss was at 13.9 percent in the FD group while it was 12.9 percent in the DO group.
While the results did not constitute a huge difference, the FD group maintained their lean body mass while the other did not. Researchers concluded that the key to weight loss in dogs is a combination of exercise and diet to help them lose fat instead of muscle.
Overweight and obesity in dogs are often a result of sedentary lifestyles. Dogs that consume more calories than what they burn will gain weight.
Similar to the best way humans can lose weight, dogs must eat less and exercise more. Fortunately, working out together can be a great exercise for dogs' human companions as well.
