Since the COVID-19 pandemic and being homebound, many of us have probably provided our beloved pets with more treats/food than usual. On the surface, this may seem a bit harmless (considering your dog is perhaps taking more walks now); however, in the United States, there is an increasing problem with dog obesity. Therefore, this subject needs to be taken more seriously.
Thankfully, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) has been documenting this trend for several years. Based on their surveys, the numbers are not encouraging:
NUMBER OF U.S. DOGS WHO ARE OVERWEIGHT/OBESE
These statistics should cause all of us who love and are responsible for the welfare of our companion animals to sit up and take a closer look at the proper weight for our pets based on our dog’s breed and age. Just because our pet does not appear overweight, does not mean they are not. It is best to consult with your veterinary professional on your dog’s proper weight. If your dog needs to shed a few pounds, feeding less and exercising more are good places to start. However, if we do not make a determined effort to reduce our pet’s weight, the following disorders and health issues can occur:
- Cancer
- Chronic Inflammation
- Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders
- Orthopedic (bone/joint) Diseases
- Respiratory Disorders
- Skin Disorders
However, along with these illnesses, an overweight dog also loses out on their quality of life and, sadly, has a lower life expectancy.
When we formulated D.O.G. dog food, we wanted to make sure we are giving all dogs a sensible, wholesome diet. D.O.G. products are formulated to be a balanced rotational feeding system for all breeds and all life stages. An important factor (for both humans and pets) is not what we eat but what we absorb. All D.O.G. vitamins and minerals are carefully sourced for quality from North America and European sources. The essential minerals are chelated (proteinated) using a process that through binding with a selected amino acids, they become a proteinated mineral for better absorption. The proteinated process makes these vital nutrients superior in that they can better be transported across the intestinal wall, which also makes them more bioavailable to the cells of organs and tissues of the body. If a dog is absorbing the proper nutrients as well as quality food ingredients, that helps and supports an active and healthier pet. It allows all dogs – from puppies and seniors – to receive the nutrients which promote the various health functions which will enable them to live long and healthy lives.
It is also vital that you do a little research yourself. There is a lot of wrong information out there about the essential nutrition your pet needs. As always, if you have any nutrition questions, please contact me via the A.S.K. DR. JOHNSON button on the following D.O.G. website link: https://www.doonlygoodpetfood.com/nutritional-facts/.
