Putting on extra pounds is a seasonal hazard in the wintertime for both dogs and their owners. The frigid weather can make it very difficult for you and your dog to get the exercise needed to keep healthy and fit, and just a few extra pounds on your dog can really affect his health. Here are some feeding tips to help prevent seasonal weight gain.
- Healthy weight. If you don’t know your dog’s healthy weight, weigh him before winter sets in so you can see what it is and monitor it throughout the season.
- Calorie counting. Cut back on your dog’s regular food prior to a big holiday meal. Depending on how much you regularly feed him, try giving him 1/4 cup less and see how he does. You can also try replacing the misssing food with canned string beans for about two weeks and then resume normal feeding.
- Too many treats. An area that is often overlooked is treats. They can be loaded with calories, and since your dog isn’t getting the recommended amount of exercise during the winter the treats can really add up to extra pounds on him. Try and cut back on treats during the winter season or replace them with crunchy vegetables like baby carrots.
Does your dog struggle with seasonal weight gain? Do you have any tips for keeping your dog at his healthy weight when the weather gets bad during the winter? Share with everyone in the comments!
Thanks to Jen Rainey for this picture of her German Shepherd Dog, Ike, having a great time in the snow!
AKC's Canine Good Citizen and S.T.A.R. Puppy Director, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist
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