How to help my overweight senior dog with mobility issues lose weight?

Question

My dog Bella is a bit overweight. She seems to have trouble with mobility. She is almost 7 yrs and it concerns me. I have a chronic illness and cannot walk her much, if ever. She has a big fenced in yard, however. Should I decrease her food? How should I do that? Is there a toy I can get that will help? I am worried about her future health. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 9 months old | 62 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Yes, you should cut back her food by 25%. So for example, if you are giving her 4 cups per day, then decrease to 3 cups. It is also helpful to feed a lower calorie diet as well. Usually senior diets (dogs are considered seniors after 7 years of age) are lower in calories or you can get one that states weight management or healthy weight. Also cut out any human foods you are giving her and all but very minimal treats. You can use green beans and/or carrots as low calorie treats if she will eat them. They have actually done many studies on weight loss in dogs and found that dogs mostly lose weight by cutting calories moreso than increasing exercise. So, don't worry that you can't exercise her that much. If you do these things for a few months with no reduction in weight then you should have her to your vet to check her thyroid levels. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

How to help my overweight senior dog with mobility issues lose weight?

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