He is 9 years old and has ALWAYS been perfectly fit. We spend a lot of time with him outside, running, swimming, etc. He was neutered in November, and since then has gained 15 pounds. Any tips on food, etc. would be much appreciated.
2007-05-30 09:26:49 · 8 answers · asked by crazeehelper 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Less food, more excersize
2007-05-30 09:29:33 · answer #1 · answered by Pom♥Mom Spay and Neuter 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Weight gain is the only negative consequence of neutering. The removal of hormones slows down the metabolism and makes the animal more prone to weight gain, but it is controllable.
What food is your dog on? Pedigree Chum, Bakers, anything available in supermarkets really is not good quality food. You need to feed the dog the correct daily amount for the weight you want him to be. If you're already doing this, you'll need to lower the amount a little more, but I think a diet change to a higher quality food would be better. He sounds like he is getting plenty of exercise so this isn't a problem, but the food situation does need to be addressed to make up for his slower metabolism.
Email me if you like, if the dog is a specific breed it's easier to advise on an ideal weight. Knowing what he's fed on would also be useful.
Chalice
2007-05-30 16:59:30 · answer #2 · answered by Chalice 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
An older dog is going to put on a few more pounds. Unless you're talking about a Newfoundland, 15 seems like alot. How much table scraps is he getting? What kind of snacks? If he's only getting dog food you may want to consider decreasing the portion or the number of times he gets fed. Is he on a senior formula? Is he getting enough excercise? If you think what you're doing is right and should be working, then take him to your vet for a geriatric check up and make sure his thyroid, tec... are functioning.
2007-05-30 16:33:49 · answer #3 · answered by suz665 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You may want to take him to the vet for an annual exam and tell them he has gained weight. You can try a senior- calorie controlled dog food and of course the obvious, No table scraps, less dog biscuits, more exercise. etc
2007-05-30 17:03:43 · answer #4 · answered by Rexydoberman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have him examined by a vet to see if there is a medical condition.
As for weight loss, I have heard good things about using low sodium green beans. Cut back on his food and replace that portion with green beans. They are high in fiber and can give him a more full feeling while eating fewer calories.
2007-05-30 16:31:14 · answer #5 · answered by schwartr88 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
reduce food intake. the hormones change and the metabolism has slowed down. keep up the play and OH...no treats that aren't fat free or lean. if dog keeps gaining after this? take him to the Vet for blood test. my dog is hypo-thyroid and we have to watch his food like hawks....
2007-05-30 16:33:22 · answer #6 · answered by sred 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
switch to a more natural, holistic food like Blue Buffalo, and increase his physical activity.
More/longer walks and runs would not only help him, but if you have a family member that needs to drop a few....
2007-05-30 16:30:59 · answer #7 · answered by Jared D 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Feed him the recommended amount of his favorite food. It should tell you according to weight on the back of the bag.
2007-05-30 16:30:35 · answer #8 · answered by Shades9323 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋