Is Fido Fat?

Dear Fitness Coach,

I know you answer fitness questions from people and, even though I am about 15 pounds over my ideal, this question is not about me. This is about my 8-year-old golden lab. He is definitely heavier than he was a couple of years ago and has become real lazy: When I let him out in the backyard he just plops down on the patio until I let him back in! Is there some kind of doggy diet I can put him on??

Mindful Master

Dear Mindful,

This is my first fitness question relating to dogs, so I did my due diligence. What I found out was that the fitness advice I would normally give is not that dissimilar to what veterinarians and pet behaviorists recommend for dogs. The obesity epidemic has cut across species lines, and now more than half of American dogs are overweight, according to Dr. Ernie Ward, a veterinarian who founded the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention . Dogs suffer the same health consequences as humans too: They are at high risk for diabetes, arthritis. and high blood pressure if they carry extra weight.

Veterinarians say that restricting caloric intake is only part of the solution. Exercise plays a key role in helping your dog reach and maintain a healthy weight. Letting him out in the backyard is just not enough - your pet still needs daily walks and lots of play time with his master. As one pet store owner pointed out, overweight dogs can be a byproduct of lazy owners: if the dog isn’t getting the requisite exercise, it is because his owner isn’t being physically active with him.

Another important thing to remember is never to reward a dog with food, as those extra calories do add up.  A popular dog trainer recommends a diet high in animal protein and little-to-no carbs unless the dog is pregnant. Check with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issue and talk to him about your concerns. My bet is that by adopting a healthy, active  lifestyle for your pet you may just end up losing a few pounds yourself!