Obesity among dogs is slowly becoming an epidemic in the US. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) reported in 2017 that 56% (50.2 million) of dogs in the US were classified as clinically obese. Overweight dogs are more prone to medica l disorders. Diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, osteoarthritis, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are common problems. Your overweight dog might also suffer from difficulty breathing and decreased mobility. Increased risk of hypothermia and increased risk of cancer result in a reduced life span. Here are 5 ways Dog Walking will help control your dog’s weight.
1. Improves your Overweight Dog Physical Health
Daily walks are a great way to boost your dog’s metabolism. This is essential in your dog’s weight loss journey. Muscle tone will also be improved since muscle loss due to aging is slowed down by regular activity. This will in turn ease symptoms of illnesses such as arthritis and will help maintain a healthy weight. Regular dog walks will help maintain healthy lungs. As your dog gets older, he will be more prone to suffering from arthritis in his joints. Walking will strengthen his muscles around the joints.
2. Promotes a Healthier Digestive System
Walking will ensure your dog has a healthy digestive system. Increased activity will also help relieve constipation. Walking stimulates the digestive system and makes bowel movement faster. Walking after meals reduces blood glucose level. This will also help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease in your dog.
3. Reduces Risk of Diseases
An overweight dog is at a higher risk for developing arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and cancer. Veterinarians can provide more information on how to tailor the amount of activity and diet if you fear your dog is at risk. Immune function is also improved when your dog has a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight will lower the risk of developing pain and stiffness in joints in the long run.
4. Boosts Mental Health
Walking will provide your overweight dog with the mental stimulation he needs. If not sufficiently stimulated, your dog can develop destructive behavior at home such as chewing household items, urinating inside, or excessive barking. Separation anxiety can also be triggered due to lack of exercise. Taking your dog out on a walk will not only make him happy, but will also help reduce stress, anxiety, or depression.
5. Alleviates Boredom
Lack of exercise can lead to boredom in your dog. Boredom can cause destructive behavior at home, such as chewing on furniture. Your pup is also likely to relieve this boredom by eating. This will put him at risk of becoming obese. Daily walks will give your pup an opportunity to exercise, visit parks, and socialize with other dogs. You should schedule anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours daily for dog walks depending on the breed. If your schedule does not permit the time for daily walks, you can hire a local Dog Walker.
Dog parents want the best for their dogs. Both physical and mental fitness is of prime importance when it comes to caring for your dog. Daily walks will help your dog maintain a healthy weight, avoid future health problems, and live a long, happy life with your family.
Buster and Whiskers is a Dog Walking Service, Dog Training Service, and Dog Hiking Service located in Astoria, NY. We offer affordable and quality Dog Walking Services, Dog Training Services, and Dog Hiking Services in Astoria, Queens, NY. Contact us if you need a reliable and professional Dog Walker here in Astoria, NY.
