Less walking, more weight: Almo Nature vets give advice for keeping your dog fit
The key phrase during this tumultuous period is #stayathome. Respecting the restrictions is mandatory in order to get us out of this situation as soon as possible. It’s not just our lives that are upside down, our dogs are also affected by this change: walks are shorter, less numerous and in close range to home.
Could this lifestyle change have an effect on the metabolism of our dog?
The reduction of physical activity reduces energy consumption and therefore reduces the usual need for calories. If you don’t adjust the daily food ration accordingly, it could lead to weight gain.
How to prevent your dog from putting on weight?
Dogs are inquisitive animals with a predatory instinct and an infallible nose for finding food. A perfect combination for organising a treasure hunt in which you hide the bowl and leave traces of scent in various rooms throughout the house.
You could also construct an obstacle course using chairs and sofas to build a type of playground. This is a fun activity that’s stimulating in a physical and a psychological level. You will discover new skills your dog has on a daily basis.
Adjust your dog's diet
Aim to reduce the ration, but don’t starve your dog, this would only unsettle and agitate them.
How to do it:
Spread the meals out over the day – 3 small meals in the morning, afternoon and evening - this prevents them from feeling hungry;
Take advantage of wet food properties: studies indicate that wet food is a great food product for body weight maintenance. It’s less calorific in comparison to dry food and its sheer volume leaves dogs feeling fuller. This makes it possible to swap one of the meals with wet food or simply add 1-2 tablespoons of wet food, depending on the size of the dog, to their reduced ration of dry food.
We hope this guide has been insightful, but in case we have forgotten something, please don’t hesitate to get in touch via Facebook or Instagram.
