Dogs love nothing more than fresh air and a game of fetch but it seems more and more are turning into couch potatoes, suffering from the effects of bad diet and little exercise. The PDSA recently reported that 1 in 3 dogs is now considered overweight.

A tubby dog may not seem like a serious issue but being overweight can render a dog more prone to injury. It can also have a serious impact on a dog’s liver, heart and even be the cause of canine diabetes. An ill dog can also be an expensive dog, and most pet insurance policies will actually exclude costs due to obesity.

Make sure that your pup isn’t one of the 1.95 million obese dogs in the country by following these simple steps.

Work out the right amount of exercise for your dog

All healthy dogs need around 30 minutes of vigorous exercise a day, with some of the more active breeds needing more. When choosing a dog to keep as a pet make sure you’re aware of their recommended levels of exercise. There are lots of great books and websites available on specific breeds but if in doubt it’s a good idea to check directly with the dog’s breeder or your vet.

Remember, even if your faithful friend is coping with injury, illness or simply getting on in years they will still benefit from exercise. Your vet may recommend hydrotherapy or a gentle exercise programme to keep them in condition.

A healthy diet

It’s important to choose the right food for your dog. Although it’s tempting to give them snacks and tit-bits from your plate, it could do more harm than good. Some human foods like chocolate are even toxic!

Staying slim

Keep an eye on your dog. Family photos may help your recall how their body has changed over time. A sudden gain or loss may be symptomatic of an underlying medical problem. Discuss any weight changes with a veterinary professional, who will hopefully be able to reassure you about whether your dog’s weight is normal.

Walkies!

It’s not always easy to find time but you should try to incorporate walking your dog into your own lifestyle, making a daily walk (or even jog) part of your routine. If you are unable to walk your dog then find someone who can. There are professional dog walkers all over the country but you could also ask a relative or friend. One important factor to think about when you or anyone else takes your pooch for a walk is obedience. They must be well trained for their own safety, especially if they are following you off of their leash.

When out and about with your dog beware of extreme temperatures. High levels of activity on a hot day can lead to doggy dehydration or even sunstroke. In the winter hydration is still very important as well as making sure they’re warm enough.

Toys, toys, toys.

Dogs love toys. Everything from chew toys to Frisbees gives them a little more activity at home. In addition to your regular walks try to mix things up for your pooch, keeping up their interest with a few different games.

Above all remember, time well spent with your four-legged friend should be fun and not a chore. Keeping your dog fit and healthy can often save you money on expensive vets bills in the long run and could even help you to drop a few pounds while you’re at it!