Tools to help tame your dog’s waistline

The number one thing you can do to improve your dog’s health and lifespan is keep them at a lean, healthy weight. It can literally add years to their life! This fact was demonstrated by a 2002 study that found Labrador Retrievers fed to maintain a lean body weight lived almost 2 years longer and had delayed onset of arthritis and other age-related diseases compared to dogs with unlimited access to food.

But what if your dog is already overweight? According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (petobesityprevention.org), almost 60% of dogs and cats are overweight. In addition to a shortened lifespan, obesity leads to a decreased quality of life and an increased risk of many diseases - including cancer. Check with your veterinarian to get an accurate assessment of your dog’s current and ideal weight.

If your dog is overweight, decreased calorie intake and increased exercise are the mainstay of an effective treatment plan. This strategy can be successful, but it takes time and dedication on the part of the owner and the veterinary team! So, what are some other tools you can use to help tame your dog’s waistline? The American Kennel Club and AKC Canine Health Foundation have some helpful ideas.

- AKC FIT DOG Program. To help promote fitness in dogs and people, the American Kennel Club (AKC) launched its FIT DOG program in 2018. To reward owners that walk a minimum of 150 hours per week for three months (based on American Heart Association recommendations), the AKC provides a logo car magnet. This allows you to proudly declare your commitment to your dog’s health and fitness through regular exercise.

In 2019, FIT DOG Clubs were introduced, encouraging local groups such as training schools, veterinary clinics, and other dog-related organizations to meet and accomplish fitness goals together with their dogs. The...