The start of another year brings new beginnings and fresh opportunities. Perhaps your large-breed dog could use a fresh start too. He can't make a New Year's resolution to get healthy, but you have the power to help make it happen. The health issues of an overweight dog can be significant, so read this article to understand, identify and resolve any weight issues your dog may have.

Health Risks
Dogs gain weight much like humans do. Sometimes they eat more calories than they use. This can be due to being overfed, not exercising enough or a combination of both. Also, their metabolism may be slowing down.

A few extra pounds may not seem to be a serious threat, but over time being overweight will affect the health of your large-breed dog. Most of the damage could happen inside your dog's body, where you can't see it. For example, canine obesity may put your dog at greater risk of serious issues involving their cardiovascular system.

Carrying extra weight also causes stress on your dog's bone structure, potentially leading to hip dysplasia — a condition that can lead to arthiritis. Since large-breed dogs are already prone to having hip dysplasia, maintaining healthy weight is all the more important. For more information, and to see if your dog has any of these issues, talk to your veterinarian.

Proper Weight
Looking at your dog's ribs can be an easy way to determine if your dog is at an ideal weight. If his ribs are protruding, it's quite probable he's too thin. Conversely, if you can't discern his ribs easily, he lacks a waist and his belly sticks out, your dog is likely overweight. Ideally, you should be able to feel each rib individually and your dog's abdomen should be slightly tucked.

Steps You Can Take
To help your overweight dog get back to a healthy weight, there are a number of techniques you can use. Try cutting back on the treats, because after all, every calorie counts. However, treats don't necessarily have to be unhealthy. Some treats, like Eukanuba Healthy Extras Adult Reduced Fat Biscuits, can help you reward your dog while supporting his healthy weight.


Gradually increase his exercise routine so he burns more calories. This helps his heart become stronger. But aside from exercise, you should also feed your dog a healthy formula like our Weight Loss formula to help your dog achieve a leaner figure. It's one of 30 Eukanuba formulas made with 100% Nutrition and 0% Filler. That means you're feeding nothing but the best. Also, as a reminder, don't feed table scraps. Human food is meant for humans and can easily cause a healthy dog to gain weight.

For more about the right nutrition for overweight dogs, check out our Adult Dog Articles Archive at Eukanuba.com.

If you haven't been to Eukanuba.com in a while, you're in for quite a treat. Not only has it been totally redesigned, but it now features a magnificent tool called Eukanuba TV. It's as simple as watching television. Get nutrition information, puppy training tips and more, on demand! Tune in to a variety of channels and shows that help owners of every breed make better decisions regarding the health of their dog. It's all on your schedule, because every episode is always available.

The Magnificence Through Nutrition Series
Select the Eukanuba Nutrition Network and you'll find a great series that gets to the heart of what Eukanuba is all about: Feeding dogs what they were meant to eat. The first episode primarily deals with our nutrition philosophy and Eukanuba's history of excellence. Want to know what the word "Eukanuba" means? This show has the answer. It's an easy way to get to know our brand and become familiar with our values.

The next few episodes are dedicated to explaining what makes Eukanuba so healthy. It's what we call the four pillars of balanced nutrition: high-quality animal proteins, a special mix of carbohydrates, an optimal blend of fats and balanced fiber. These are the key ingredients to making your good dog great. However, it's important to remember that when dealing with dog food, what is left out is as important as what's put in. That's why Eukanuba is made with 100% Nutrition and 0% Filler.


Other Programming
While you're there, be sure and check out the other channels too. Planet Puppy has an excellent show called Puppy Training Series that is an excellent resource for new owners. Join host/actor Jim Piddock (from dog show comedy, Best in Show) and acclaimed dog expert Martin Deeley as they examine the ins and outs of properly raising a puppy. You'll also enjoy watching the Eukanuba Learning Channel's show called Breed Spotlight. It takes a look at what makes some of the best-loved breeds in the world so special. You'll be entertained and gain a deeper appreciation for them.