Characteristics Of An "Over-Treater"

obesity, Treats, weight - By Staff Writer on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 - 13:04

Do you have an overweight dog and you know you should not give them treats but do? You are most likely an "Over-Treater."  Like humans, too much of a good thing is bad for your dog. While they may like the taste, it is not good for their waistline. Only you have the ability to control what your dog eats and your habits might be hurting your dog. Just like overeaters there are underlying reasons for your over treating your dog and your behavior could be harmful for your pet.  If your dog is overweight from your treating it is worth looking into the reasons you over treat.  Below are the common categories of “Over-Treaters”.

The Guilty Treater
Do you feel guilty when you leave your dog to go out for the night so you throw a few extra treats on the couch for them?  Do long work hours make you feel like you need to make it up to your dog?  The Guilty Party Treater throws a party with treats to make up for feelings of guilt over lack of time spent with his dog.  Instead of tossing your dog a bone try to take them on a quick stroll around the block to burn off some extra energy.
   
The Oblivious Treater
If you think your dog hardly eats but is 10 lbs overweight your dog either has a thyroidThe thyroid is the largest of the hormone secreting endocrine glands. It is located on the neck and regulates metabolism. issue and needs to see a vet or you are blind to the actual amount your dog is eating.  Does the entire family slip your dog treats under the table at dinner?  Every bite counts and this can add up quickly to a few pounds too many.  Don't turn a blind eye to the actual amount your dog is eating. If you find your dog is getting fat keep track of everything they ingest and start to eliminate the treats.

The Can’t Take The Cute Treater
We have all seen it, the huge puppy dog eyes even the grumpiest dog can get when there are treats involved.  Learn to harden yourself to the cuteness of your pup and reward him with something other then food.  Your dog will be so much cuter when he weighs what he should and is not a huge butterball.  Teach your dog to sit in another room when you cook or eat or feed him his  dinner at the same time so you can avoid feeding the beggar.

The Worn-out Treater
Does your dog’s begging have you at wits end so you give him just a little?  Do you just cave and give your dog treats to shut him up every time he barks or acts up?  Do you use treats as a distraction for your hyperHyper refers to increased activity or production. dog?  If you treat your dog to get him off your back or to distract him you might be a "Worn-out Treater."  Giving your dog treats to keep him busy, distract him, get him to stop begging or keep him from acting up is simply rewarding bad behavior and making him fat.  By cutting out treats and rewarding him with exercise you will cut down on the bad behavior and the need for treats.  If you just can't take the begging any more we suggest you enlist the help of a trainer to teach you how to change your dogs behavior and develop a healthier relationship.

Regardless of why you treat your dog, the key is moderation.  If you want to reward your dog try changing the food with a game of catch or a stroll around the block.  Just like when you are trying to lose weight, changing your view on what a reward is will help both you and your dog to have a healthier outlook and life.