Obesity is a huge health problem for your dog. Moreover, it can cause consequences that are much more difficult to treat than the underlying cause. If you're planning to get a dog, find out in advance whether your particular breed is prone to obesity.
Golden Retriever
Golden retriever owners can talk endlessly about how intelligent and kind-hearted these dogs are. They make excellent companions and loyal friends. Excess weight is one of the most common problems in this breed. This is due not only to their excellent appetite but also to the fact that the dog can consume unlimited amounts of food.
Don't let your Golden Retriever sit in one place for too long. Carefully monitor their portion sizes and the quality of their food. An adult male should not weigh more than 36 kg (86 lbs), and a female should not weigh more than 32 kg (70 lbs). If this limit is exceeded, your pet is at risk not only of excess weight but also of the associated problems.
Namely:
- elevated body temperature;
- diabetes mellitus;
- ascites;
- hip and elbow dysplasia;
- arthritis.
To prevent obesity, it is necessary to monitor the retriever's diet from the first months of life and provide it with a sufficient number of walks with physical activity.
Labrador
Labradors are currently one of the most popular family breeds. They are kind and friendly. However, these sweet dogs have a terrible drawback: they are completely indiscriminate in their tastes. These shaggy gluttons are ready to eat anything and everything, in enormous quantities. Owners often even catch their pets stealing food.
Labradors are prone to hypothyroidism. This condition is a thyroid disorder that affects metabolism. Therefore, it's important to work with your veterinarian to develop a balanced diet for your pet. Maintain an active lifestyle, as this can lead to hip dysplasia and arthritis.
Pug
Some people tend to think that only large breed dogs are prone to obesity. This is a common misconception. After all, even a small dog like a pug can easily gain excess weight.
These adorable animals don't tolerate prolonged physical activity. However, they have excellent appetites and never refuse a second helping. Another problem is that some owners tend to think that a true representative of this breed is simply plump.
Don't overfeed your pets, and try to give them long walks. Otherwise, along with excess weight, your pug will develop breathing problems and dangerous cardiovascular diseases.
Cocker
The ideal weight for a Cocker Spaniel ranges from 12-16 kg for males and 11-14 kg for females. A healthy Cocker Spaniel has well-defined, firm, and muscular thighs and shoulders.
Cockers can gain excess weight not because of a healthy appetite. This breed is also susceptible to hypothyroidism and diabetes. These two conditions are the primary causes of this problem.
Don't add to your pet's difficulties, don't exceed the daily food allowance, and don't try to bribe your pet with treats. Also, visit your veterinarian regularly to avoid missing the onset of a serious condition that could be causing weight gain.
Beagle
Beagles were originally a hunting breed. But over time, they settled down completely and became family pets, not "working" dogs. From their previous lives, they inherited a unique ability to balance food and exercise. But with little exercise remaining, the food they consume is increasingly deposited as fat on their flanks.
Beagles have a very lively and active nature. Take advantage of this to prevent your pet from becoming overweight. Exercise them as much as possible during walks. Encourage them to run and jump as much as possible.
Dachshund
This breed is known for its unusual yet complex body structure. It has an elongated shape and disproportionately short legs. The dachshund's belly is perfectly proportionate to its body. However, it is too large for the paws, placing additional strain on them.
Due to these structural features, this breed often suffers from spinal problems. They are prone to intervertebral disc disease. Excess weight can only exacerbate the problem, so overfeeding a dachshund is strictly prohibited.
If you're a responsible owner, you care about your pet's health. Monitor their diet, visit the veterinarian regularly, and don't forget about exercise.
