by R. R. Fritz

Created on: November 02, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

Has your dog gotten a little, ahem, fluffy? Just as with people, obesity can shorten a pets' lifespan so it is important to get the weight problem under control. The good news is that you don't have to deprive your best friend to get them healthy.

The first thing to do is evaluate the main dog food you are feeding. Some cheaper brands add flavor enhancers to encourage the dog to eat what may not be the nutritionally best food. "Animal by-products" (whatever is left after meat animals are used for human food) and cheap fillers like corn and wheat add empty calories. Look for a high quality dog food that provides the best nutritional value.

If you are feeding only one meal a day, switch to two. Your dog will not be as hungry when it is fed and allows for better digestion and metabolism. Free feeding (keeping a bowl of food out all day) makes it difficult to track of how many calories your dog is eating, so switch to designated meals.

Check the bag to see if you are feeding the right amount for your dogs' goal weight. Consider your dog's age, health and activity level when deciding how much food to feed. A younger dog is more active than a senior dog. If your dog runs with you for miles you can feed more than if your dog spends all day on the couch. There are special dog foods for puppies, seniors, and even specific breeds so periodically make sure your food is the best for your dogs' specific needs.

Skip the junk food and switch to healthy treats. Raw baby carrots work great. They are still crunchy and flavorful but have fewer calories than most biscuits.

Another trick is to cut down the amount of kibble and replace it with no-salt added green beans. If the bag recommends feeding your dog one cup of food a day, give 1/3 cup in the morning, 1/3 cup in the evening and supplement the food with 1/3 cup green beans. They are flavorful and high in fiber so the dog will not feel deprived, but they have considerably less calories.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes if your dog has ongoing medical issues. Remember, your dog can't open up the refrigerator; it's up to you to keep them healthy and happy.

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