How to Put Your Dog on a Diet

Dogs can pack on extra pounds they don’t need. Help them shed the weight and stay healthy.

: Check with your veterinarian before putting your dog on a diet.
Step 1: Buy dog food Buy diet dog food. Your dog will take to their diet more easily if you don't cut down their intake too much.
TIP: Look for low-fat food with plenty of digestible carbohydrates.
Step 2: Buy diet snacks If your dog is used to snacking at certain times of the day or as a reward for certain activities, offer them diet treats.
TIP: Avoid feeding dogs table scraps.
Step 3: Exercise Consult your vet to create an exercise plan for your dog. Instead of letting them outside a couple of times a day, take them for vigorous walks. It will benefit you both!
Step 4: Have regular weigh-ins Talk to your vet about coming in for regular weigh-ins to make sure your dog is not losing too much weight too quickly.
FACT: In 2001 an English Mastiff weighing 286 pounds, appropriately named 'Moose,' was named the largest dog in America.