How Can I Help My Overweight Dog?

Is Your Pup Getting a Little Too Fluffy?

This is basically a nice way of saying "Hey, maybe your dog needs to lay off the treats." At Hounds Town Fort Lauderdale, we see how daily activity and making friends can totally change a dogs' health.

Here's the scary truth: more than 55% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. That's more than half! This isn't just about looks — it's about your pup living their best, longest life possible.

How to Tell if Your Dog Is Packing Extra Pounds

The American Kennel Club gives us some simple ways to check your dog's weight:

Look at their body shape: If your dog's belly sags or their chest and stomach make a straight line without any upward curve, they might be carrying extra weight.

Feel their ribs: You should be able to feel ribs easily without pressing hard. If you have to dig around to find them, your dog may be too heavy.

Watch their breathing: Heavy or hard breathing during walks can mean they're carrying too much weight.

Ask your vet: Even if your vet hasn't brought up your dog's weight, it's worth asking directly. Sometimes we need to hear it straight.

Health Risks That Should Scare You

Extra weight can cause serious health problems. Overweight dogs are way more likely to get:

• Diabetes

• Arthritis and joint problems

• High blood pressure

• Breathing troubles

• Liver or kidney disease

• Certain cancers

Even if these don't kill your dog right away, they can make their life miserable and cost you a fortune in vet bills.

How to Help Your Dog Drop the Weight

The National Pet Obesity Survey says there are two main ways to help:

1. Control the calories – Work with your vet to figure out the right calorie limit for your dog and actually stick to it. No cheating with extra treats!

2. Get moving more – Add extra time to daily walks or try new activities that get your dog's heart pumping.

Being consistent is everything. Stop with the excess treats and table scraps if you want to see real results.

How Doggy Daycare Helps Dogs Get Fit

For some dogs, walks just aren't enough. At Hounds Town Fort Lauderdale dog daycare, dogs play actively all day long in safe, off-leash environments. This type of exercise helps with:

Longer activity: Dogs stay active for way longer periods than a quick walk around the block.

Heart and brain workouts: Pack play gives both physical exercise and mental challenges beyond boring routine walks.

Stress relief: Off-leash activity lets dogs relax and act naturally, which supports overall health.

Daycare doesn't just help with healthy weight management — it also gives dogs the friends and routine that many pups need to be happy.

Time to Get Your Dog Healthy

If you're worried about your dog's weight, start with proper food portions and more activity. For many families, dog daycare offers the extra exercise and fun needed to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Your dog deserves to feel light, energetic, and ready for anything. Let's make that happen!

Ready to Help Your Dog Get Fit?

Want to see how Hounds Town Fort Lauderdale can help your dog get healthier through daycare, boarding, and grooming services? Contact us today to learn more!

Follow Hounds Town Fort Lauderdale on Facebook and Instagram or to find a doggy daycare location near you, check out Hounds Town USA.

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