Keeping Dogs Lean
Like people, pets need proper diet and exercise to stay lean and healthy; without daily fitness, dogs risk diseases as they age in addition to weak limbs and stiff joints. According to the American Pet Obesity Prevention Association, over 56 percent of dogs in the United States are classified as overweight or obese. If dogs aren't moving, they risk the following complications:
- Many types of cancer
- diabetes mellitus
- heart disease
- hypertension
- osteoarthritis
- urinary bladder stones.
As you can see, having a fat dog is the least of the worries; but it can be controlled. Dog owners should keep in mind that dogs need at least 30 minutes of daily activity while they are young and up to an hour each day when they become older. Dog exercise can be done from the convenience of your own home. Simply install a dog fence in the yard for security and get to working out with Fido! Choose strength training exercises for dogs that allow them to run; stretch and jump.