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Overweight dogs are at higher risk of developing a variety of health problems, including:
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Heart disease |
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Arthritis |
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Breathing problems |
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Anesthetic and surgical complications |
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Joint problems |
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Increased risks of certain kinds of cancer |
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Skin disease |
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Premature death |
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Diabetes |
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For your dog to lose weight, you must reduce the number of calories he eats while increasing his energy output. By following a supervised program of calorie control and moderate exercise, you can help your dog lose weight steadily and safely. This approach will leave him feeling full after meals while assuring he receives adequate nutrition.
5 helpful tips
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Check for obesity
Ask your veterinarian for help in recognising signs of obesity in your dog. Use the PURINA® Body Condition System to see if your dog is too heavy, too thin or at its ideal body condition. |
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Follow a nutrition plan
You and your veterinarian can create a nutritious plan that feeds your dog to his ideal body condition. Refer to PURINA® Life Plan found on the back of many PURINA® product packages to help you adjust feeding amounts as your dog’s activity level and body condition change. |
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Measure each serving
Don’t just fill up your dog’s bowl at each feeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the back of PURINA® packages to give your dog the proper size serving for his ideal body condition. |
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Limit treats
Shower your dog with love and attention instead of too many high calories treats, especially table scraps. Be mindful of the quality and quantity of treats you feed him each day – calories add up quickly. |
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Get moving
Daily exercise is one of the keys to your dog’s health. Just 20 minutes of walking or playing fetch each day can help keep your dog fit. Be sure to check with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s exercise routine. |
Weight loss doesn’t come easy
PURINA® Overweight Management® Canine and Feline Formulas are recommended for overweight dogs and cats which need low-fat, high fiber and reduced calorie diets. Your dog needs a meat-based diet, high in protein (which isn't stored as fat) and fat and low in carbohydrate. PRO PLAN® food has appropriate levels of fat and calories to help keep dogs at a healthy weight. Its optimal protein to fat ratio helps maintain lean body mass to help dogs stay stronger, leaner and longer.
It is a real challenge to complete a weight management program successfully. The success or failure depends on how well you stick to the new feeding regimen. Through your efforts, your overweight pet can be healthier, happier and more active for years to come.
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