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At first, it was cute. Just a round little tummy or chubby little legs that weren't "fat" because they were adorable and you felt like Santa Claus for the mere price of a nibble thrown here or there as they sat beside you on the couch. But now you are starting to notice that "chubby" has morphed straight into "fat" as you watch them get winded from trying to haul themselves up on the couch.

The factors of weight gain for dogs are very much the same as their humans. Poor nutrition, distorted portion control and lack of exercise make up for the majority of weight gain in dogs. Like their human counterparts, dogs are also susceptible to illness such as diabetes or hormone disorders that can cause weight gain. Genetics can play a factor in weight gain as well. Labradors, Basset Hounds and Dachshunds are just a few of the breeds of dog that predisposed to being overweight.

Before beginning any diet plan, make an appointment with your vet. A thorough check-up with tests may uncover any underlying conditions that need to be treated for your dog's weight management and overall health. If the tests do show an underlying medical condition, your vet can then prescribe or recommend a weight loss program that would include nutrition, portion control and exercise appropriate for that condition. Should the vet prescribe a medication to treat your dog's medical condition, get clarification on the effects of the drug and if it will help or hurt your dog's weight management.

Eliminating unnecessary calories by cutting out table food and switching to lower calorie versions of food or snacks is recommended for aggressive weight loss plans. However, if your budget is too tight to buy a more expensive brand of dog food or you feel your brand of dog food is adequate enough, utilizing portion control with their food and treats can still make a difference. Consider adding vet approved supplements for added nutritional insurance if you have concerns about meeting your dog's nutritional needs.

Behavioral modification or retraining your dog's attitude to food can be a critical element when or if you are making the switch to another dog food and treats. While you understand the reason for healthier eating and portion control, your dog's point view may be that you are ruining a perfectly good(and tasty)system that has worked for them so well over the years. Establish healthy boundaries for your dog by redefining an overindulgent reward system by cutting back on the frequency and the caloric content of treats or curtailing access to table food. Expect a battle of wills and be prepared to meet those challenges with solid consistency. As hard as it may seem right now, the payoff is your dog enjoying the full benefits of a healthier, better behaved, long life that you both can enjoy.

Exercise plays a key role in your dog's weight management plan. Dogs are pack animals and as such, crave approval found in bonding activities like walking together or a spirited game of tug-o-war. Dogs with joint or severe weight problems can find fitness and freedom in the buoyancy of a swimming pool. Across the country, dog parks are quickly becoming popular options as they offer dogs and their humans a chance to have fun while making new friends as they get healthy activity.

Make your pup losing weight a win-win situation for everyone. Get out, get moving and get healthy. You will thank each other for it in the years to come.

Learn more about this author, Hope Jones.
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