My senior dog is overweight. How do I safely exercise and feed her?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | spayed | 10 years and 11 months old | 19 lbs
I have a 11 year old chihuahua/jack Russell. She’s overweight and I want to exercise her but how much should I do? Should I try homemade dog food or should I stay with dog chow?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 6th, 2020
Sticking with the current diet, or seeing if there is a weight loss diet from the same brand can help in calorie reduction. You can also speak with your vet about if a prescription weight loss diet is needed at this time. As with any increase in exercise, you will want to start gradually, especially if Angel has any health issues such as arthritis. Starting with a quick walk just around the block, and then gradually increasing over time (to two blocks, or ten minute walks, etc) can help build muscle and strength without overtaxing the body. As with any change in routine or diet, it is always a good idea to schedule a wellness check with your vet first. They can rule out any health issues that may cause problems that you need to watch out for, and can also work with you on tracking weight loss progress over time.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 3rd, 2019
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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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