Overeating in Dogs: Which Breeds Are High Risk?
As much as we hope otherwise, humans do not enter this world on equal terms. Even excluding complex socioeconomic issues, inequality lurks in our medical records: Some of us are genetically predisposed to medical problems like heart disease and certain cancers. A study from the Harvard School of Public Health suggests that our genes even make some of us more likely to be obese *.
Genetic injustice does not stop with homo sapiens. Our canine companions can also be genetically destined for certain disorders due to breeding practices. Over countless generations, dog enthusiasts created the various breeds by selecting and breeding only dogs that displayed certain desired traits, such as certain coat colors and facial shapes. This selective breeding for attractive qualities depleted genetic diversity, leaving weaknesses in the genetic maps of individual dogs.
For example, the intense breeding required to produce the impressive spots of the Dalmatian also brought its genetic predisposition to ailments such as kidney stones and deafness. In the same vein, poodles are much loved around the world for their beautiful skin and hypoallergenic intelligence. Unfortunately, rigorous breeding to meet demand for these popular dogs has also made Poodles the most disease-prone breed – they have been linked to 145 genetically influenced disorders.
Obesity is no exception. In many cases, the causes of obesity are obvious: as in humans, when a dog eats too much and exercises too little, it is likely to be overweight. Also, low-quality, low-protein dog foods can encourage overeating, as dogs need to eat more to feel full. Most cases of canine obesity have their origin in these causes.
However, certain dog breeds are more likely to gain excess weight, for the reasons listed below. If you’re concerned that your adorable pup’s breed is on the list, take heart – we’ve also listed techniques for preventing weight gain or, if it’s too late for prevention, helping your dog shed those extra pounds.
Chow Hounds: Breeds that tend to eat fast
A quick review of the history of the canine species explains why some dogs practically inhale their food. Many experts believe that dogs were separated into separate species 15,000 years ago, when certain wolves chose to enter a new niche created by humans, living near easy food supplies from waste dumps. In this circumstance, it made sense for the dogs to eat fast, so that they could ingest as much food as possible before the appearance of rival dogs or predators.
Today, the original utility of quick consumption has been replaced by the dog’s obesity and bloating problems. Obesity occurs when owners often assume their dog is still hungry, causing him to overeat. Gastric torture, or dog bloat, is a much more serious disorder in which the dog sucks in air with its food, causing the stomach to twist in on itself, blocking outlets, even as digestion continues to release more gas. . The deep, narrow chests of breeds like Collies and Saint Bernards make them more prone to dog bloat. Other fast eaters include large breeds such as Labrador retrievers, Basset Hounds, Rottweilers, and any dog that had to worry about having food taken away as a puppy. Be aware that any breed can eat too fast; Monitor your dog’s eating habits to determine if he is overeating.
How to slow down your chow dog
? Establish a consistent feeding schedule and stick to it. Many vets suggest two daily feedings, in the morning and in the evening. Record the amount you normally feed your dog each day and check with your vet to see if it is an adequate amount. Avoid giving your dog leftover food and treats to other people.
Create an obstacle in your dog’s plate. Some owners and veterinarians recommend placing a tennis ball or large stone in your dog’s bowl for slow eating. Other more aesthetically pleasing solutions, such as the DogPause Bowl, use the same principle to easily but effectively slow down a dog’s eating pattern. These bowls have half-cup divisions on the bowl that create an obstacle for your pup to work to get to his food.
Canine energy: breeds that need a lot of exercise
Some dogs were specifically bred for work. Shepherds were bred to run all day herding sheep, for example. It’s no wonder, then, that working dogs like German Shepherds, Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Beagles gain weight when they don’t exercise on a daily basis.
How to get your four-legged friend back to a healthy weight:
Get out there and play. Half an hour of exercise is a good idea for all dogs, regardless of their size. Your dog may need more – some vets recommend that you walk your dog one city block for every ten pounds of weight. Talk to your vet about the recommended amount of exercise for your puppy to see if your breed may require a bit more time to stay in shape.
~ Ben Anton, 2008