Exercising an Overweight Dog

exercise, obesity, weight - By Staff Writer on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 - 13:24

If your dog is overweight there is a good chance they got that way from being a couch potato.  One of the best ways to get weight off a dog is through exercise.  However, if you are dealing with an already overweight dog you must be careful how you reintroduce exercise into their life.  Going too quickly or encouraging the wrong activities could be detrimental to your dogs health.  Below are some great options for getting your dog started in exercising to lose weight.

Swimming
Because overweight dogs have extra strain on their joints from carrying extra weight you should be careful what activities you use to help your dog drop the pounds.  Swimming is the best option for obese dogs.  The support of the water will allow your dog to exercise without straining joints and ligaments and swimming gets every muscle involved for a great overall workout.  Make sure you are with your dog at all times.  Your dog will likely wear out quickly and you might need to help him out of the pool.

Walking
Taking your dog for a walk is the easiest option since it only requires a leash.  Start very slowly as your dog is not used to the strain and exertion.  Each day as your dog gets fitter and more used to exercise encourage your dog to go one block further.  Watch closely for any signs of stress, exhaustion or overheating.  Make sure to bring water and be ready to take breaks if your dogs needs them.  If you keep at it your dog will be walking her way to a healthy body before you realize it.

Fun And Games
Encourage your dog to play more.  If your dog has a toy that he loves, bring it out more often for a game of tug or catch.  Short periods of intense activity will help your dog bring up its metabolism.  If you have a hard time keeping your dogs attention bring in a treat ball filled with his favorite low-calorie treat. 

Training
While training is not totally aerobic it can help your dog fit in some activity into an sedentary life.  Have your dog work for their food by teaching them tricks.  As your dog gets used to moving and following commands you can build on the activities into more intense exercises like agility.

The key to exercising an obese dog is to start very slow and pay close attention to any signs of stress, limping of distress.  The extra weight can be painful and will cause your dog to overheat quickly.  Speak first with your vet to make sure any new activities are suitable for your dog and their exercise needs.