View Full Version : Weight issue for Heidi
K9Kraze19
10-25-2011, 03:56 PM
Hi Everyone,
I recently adopted my Schnauzer, Heidi. She has been great in adjusting to our family and home. I am concerned though because she a little older (about 4.5 years) and is a little up there in weight (22lbs.). I want to put her on a diet but I am nervous! I really don't want her to develop diabetes later in life, since that is common for her breed. Do any of you have recommended foods or exercises (more thanjust walking)? Thanks in advance!
June & Heidi
Labman
10-25-2011, 04:16 PM
Unless a dog is grossly over weight a simple less of its regular diet and and more exercise should be all it needs. I am glad you recognize the importance of weight control. For a good guide, see http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx
Shells_k
10-26-2011, 02:58 AM
We have weight issues with our dog Sugar, who gets walked at least twice a day. She is always begging for food, and we would always give in because otherwise she barks incessantly. We lowered her food down to the minimum recommended amount. We also add a half can of green beans in the morning and at night to her food. Its just a filler, my dog LOVES them, and it fills her up. She has lost a lot of weight between the walks, reducing her food, and the green beans.
K9Kraze19
11-02-2011, 06:39 PM
Hi Everyone!
Thanks for all your kind words and feedback!
I have started Heidi on a holistic food diet and have upped her walking routine to 3x/day in hope that this can help mitigate our little weight issue. I want her to have a long, happy life with us and I hope that we can all commit to making these changes! Vet said she isn't in any imminent health danger, but just like humans, better to start off strong so you can end strong, too!
Thanks again!
June & Heidi
BetterDog4U
11-02-2011, 08:37 PM
Be careful when "changing" your dog's diet. It can cause eating issues and in some cases upset stomach, diareha and vomiting.
IMHO, Reduced intake and more exersize is always the best.
Labman
11-02-2011, 11:06 PM
Yes, good point. Any sudden change in diet can upset digestion. Best to mix in a little at first and then more and more over a week.
BetterDog4U
11-05-2011, 02:13 AM
Yes, good point. Any sudden change in diet can upset digestion. Best to mix in a little at first and then more and more over a week.
I always recommend 10% change every 3 days. That way it takes about a month to completely replace the old food with the new food. I have never had food related issues in 25 years.