I reached for a bag of cookies that wouldn’t do my expanding waistline any good, then looked at my chubby spaniel, begging beside me. I needed to change. For both of us. Lord, Kelly trusts me and I’ve let her down. Myself too. Help me. Show me how to do the right thing for us.
Several years ago I wrote an article for Guideposts, The Doggy Diet, which led to my first book, Dieting with my Dog. At the time, I’d realized that both my dog and I were overweight. So I set out to change our unhealthy habits. We both lost weight and got fit.
Kelly has maintained her weight loss and is feeling great. I still struggle with maintaining those healthy habits, but overall have lost weight and made many positive lifestyle changes.
Studies show that more than 50 percent of our dogs are overweight or obese. This can lead to the same health concerns for our pets as it can for us–diabetes, heart disease, joint problems and even certain types of cancer.
READ MORE: THE DOGGIE WORKOUT PLAN
God gave us companion animals and has entrusted them in our care. We need to take care of them, and that includes keeping their weight down.
Here are six practical tips to help your dog get fit, from my book The Dieting with my Dog Guide to Weight Loss and Maintenance.
1) Invest in the best quality food you can afford. The site Dog Food Advisor is a big help in choosing the right food for your pet.
2) Ask your veterinarian how much food your dog needs. Always measure your dog’s food instead of pouring in “one scoop.”
3) If begging is a problem, keep your dog out of the dining room during your meal times.
4) Resist offering your dog table scraps. Especially meat fat, pizza crusts and sweets.
5) Substitute dog-appropriate fruits and veggies for traditional fattening dog treats.
6) Remember, food is not love. Love your dog with hugs, playtime, exercise and attention.
Here are some healthy treats both you and your dog can enjoy!
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Carrots
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Apple (no seeds)
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Banana
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Rice cake
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Watermelon
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Blueberries
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Green beans (fresh or frozen)
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Pumpkin
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Dried sweet potato chips
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Dried kale chips
Thursday I’ll share some fun ways to exercise with your dog.
Your dog can’t manage her own diet and exercise routine, so it’s up to you to make the necessary changes. Even better: Do it together!
