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Prioritizing your pup’s fitness will help him live a long and happy life. However, keeping a dog in shape can be tricky when each has unique caloric and fitness needs. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that 56 percent of dogs are clinically overweight or obese, mainly due to owners' busy schedules and lack of proper health guidance. From switching your dog's food to adopting a pet-friendly fitness routine, these tips will help you get them on track toward better health.

1. Understand Their Nutritional Needs

Just like us, dogs need a balanced diet consisting of essential nutrients: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. These are critical to your dog's growth, energy levels, cell maintenance and overall health. Table scraps tend to contribute to weight gain and should not be part of their diet. High-quality commercial pet food is specially formulated to provide all the nutrients they need. Pay careful attention to the list of ingredients on dog food bags when out shopping and choose those that contain meat as the first or second ingredient. Better yet, select organic dog food to reduce skin issues, allergies and digestive disorders while promoting better overall health, increased energy and a shiny coat.

2. Measure Their Food Accurately

Try not to give your dog free access to unlimited food. Instead, feed your dog carefully measured portions throughout the day. According to the ASPCA, the activity level of your pet plays an important role in the amount of food they should be eating. So, you may need to adjust your portion sizes as you learn how many calories your dog requires to maintain a healthy weight. Try to stay within your dog's target daily calorie range and use measuring cups to ensure you're feeding them the correct amount. Don't forget to account for the calories in any treats you give them throughout the day.

3. Provide Regular Exercise

The amount of exercise your dog needs will depend on their age and breed. But, most dogs require between 30 to 60 minutes per day. There are various ways to exercise your dog, many of which will help you get your own physical activity as well. Walking your dog with intervals of jogging or running can boost the cardio benefits and help them burn more calories. Resistance walks on sand or finding obstacles along your walk for them to jump over are also good options. Make sure you choose a good leash that is both comfortable for your pup and easy for you to use. Other options for exercise include taking them to a dog park or playing long-range fetch in a field. If your pet has joint or back issues, talk to your vet about swimming exercises and hydrotherapy.

Get your pet moving every day, even when you're stuck inside due to rain or snow. Run them up and down the stairs by throwing toys for them, set up an obstacle course inside, or play hide and seek with their treats. You can also take them to your local pet store to roam around and stimulate their mind in a new environment.

4. Keep a Record of Your Pup’s Weight

Tracking your dog’s health will help you determine which activities and feeding behaviors are working and how you need to adjust these to better suit their needs. Talk to your vet about creating a dog diet plan to help your pet slim down. Start by finding out your dog's ideal weight and then establish a way to monitor their weight on a regular basis. Smaller dogs can be weighed at home while larger ones may need to be brought to the vet for a weigh-in. Recheck your pet's weight as you implement their diet and adjust calories as necessary. Ideally, your dog will lose around 0.5 to 2 percent of their starting weight per week until they reach your target.

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Keeping your dog fit is one of the best ways to ensure they remain healthy for many years to come. You may even get inspired to discover better physical health for yourself as you exercise your pet regularly and keep track of their nutrition.

In fact, dogs are the best workout partners we could ask for!

*This article was a guest submission by Jessica Brody of OurBestFriends.pet 

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