How can I help my overweight corgi?
It’s no secret that many of us are struggling with our weight. But did you know that our furry friends are, too? In fact, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, roughly 55.8% of dogs in the United States are clinically overweight or obese. That’s more than half the dogs in America!
And while a little extra weight might not seem like a big deal, it can be quite harmful to your corgi’s health. Just like in humans, being overweight or obese can lead to a whole host of health problems in dogs, including joint pain, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even some forms of cancer.
So, if your corgi is overweight, it’s important to do something about it. But how? Below are some tips on how you can help your overweight corgi lose weight and get back to a healthy size.
What is a good weight for a corgi?
When it comes to the ideal weight for Corgis, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has some definitive guidelines. According to the AKC Official Corgi Standards, male Corgis can weigh up to 30 pounds, while female Corgis trailing closely behind can weigh up to 28 pounds. Most Corgis, however, will fall somewhere in the middle, weighing between 22 and 30 pounds.
How Do I Tell If My Corgi is Overweight?
While the scales can give you a good indication of whether your Corgi is overweight, it’s best to not solely rely on them. How your Corgi looks and feels is another reliable way to assess his current state.
One way to assess whether your Corgi is overweight is by feeling the ribs. Ideally, you should be able to feel the ribs slightly when you run your hand along his side, or at least when light pressure is applied.
If you can’t feel them at all, or you need to apply excessive pressure, that’s an indicator of being overweight. Another way to tell if your Corgi is overweight is by observing how he moves. Unless your corgi is already very old, he should be able to move swiftly and with ease.
If your corgi struggles with basic movements, running, or even getting up from a lying position, this again indicates he’s over his ideal weight.
Of course, the best way to know for sure is to have your veterinarian check him out. But by being aware of these signs, you can help ensure your Corgi stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Related post: Corgi health problems: Are Corgis Healthy Dogs?
How do I get my Corgi to lose weight?
If your Corgi is overweight, there are a few things you can do to help him slim down.
First, take a look at his diet. Just like in humans, what we eat plays a big role in our overall health and weight. If your Corgi is eating too much food or the wrong kind of food, that’s likely contributing to his weight gain.
Talk to your veterinarian about how much food your Corgi should be eating and what kind of food is best for him. They can help you create a healthy diet plan that will help your Corgi lose weight safely and effectively.
Here are some tips to make your corgi lose weight
-Increase Exercise: Just like with humans, one of the best ways to help your corgi lose weight is to increase their exercise. If your pup is used to lounging around all day, start slowly with just a few minutes of walking or playing each day. As they get used to the new routine, they can gradually increase the amount of time they spend exercising. Regular exercise will help your corgi build muscle and burn off excess fat.
-Feed Smaller Meals: Overeating is one of the main culprits behind weight gain in dogs. To help prevent your corgi from overeating, try feeding them smaller meals more often throughout the day instead of one large meal. This will help them feel fuller longer and prevent them from becoming ravenous between meals.
-Choose Healthy Foods: Another important factor in helping your corgi lose weight is making sure they’re eating healthy foods. Avoid processed foods and snacks that are high in calories and low in nutrients. Instead, opt for fresh foods that are packed with fiber and protein. These will help fill your pup up without adding excess pounds.
-Limit Treats: It’s hard to resist those cute little puppy dog eyes begging for a treat, but it’s important to limit the number of treats you give your corgi. Too many treats can quickly add up and cause weight gain. If you do give them a treat, make sure it’s healthy and low in calories. And always remember to factor treats into their overall daily calorie intake.
-Avoid feeding your corgi table scraps: It can be tempting to give your corgi a little taste of whatever you’re eating, but resist the urge. Human food is often high in calories and fat, which can lead to weight gain. Plus, some foods that are perfectly safe for humans can be toxic to dogs. So it’s best to avoid feeding your corgi table scraps altogether.
Related post: The best dog food for Corgis
Final thoughts
If your corgi is carrying around a few extra pounds, don’t worry – you’re not alone! But it is important to take action to help your pup slim down so they can live a long and healthy life. By increasing their exercise, feeding them smaller meals more often, choosing healthy foods, and limiting treats, you can help your overweight corgi get back on track!
Related post: How to care for a Corgi
