What follows is a list of recommendations regarding Diet and Exercise provided by Dr. Peter Eeg.

Diet Considerations:

  1. Do your homework on diets. Pick several diets that you think seem to be good for your pet. Then go to your veterinarian for advice on which diet may be best for your specific pet.
  2. Breed of dog, home environment, activity level and expected purpose of your pet all play a role in what diet works best.
  3. No one diet fits all types of pets. Don’t go generic without first consulting your veterinarian.
  4. Ask if supplements are right or even required for your particular pet.
  5. Find out how treats should be used. More information can be found about the use of treats in Training and Behavior.
  6. Find out which treats are best for your pet.
  7. As your pet grows their nutritional requirements change. Be sure you know the times for diet adjustments.
  8. Too much of a good thing can produce a lifetime of extra medical bills and lowered quality of life. Don’t let your pet get overweight. Ask your veterinarian for tips on keeping off the extra pounds or getting off that unwanted fat.
  9. Younger and older pets have vastly different nutritional requirements. Ask your veterinarian about the importance of stage of life diets.
  10. It is never too late to get the scoop on how much to scoop for your pet’s meals.

Exercise Considerations:

Understand your dog’s individual exercise needs and talk with your veterinarian about proper exercise tips.

  1. A consistent exercise regimen can go a long way in curtailing behavior problems.
  2. Make sure your environment is safe and secure.
  3. Ask your veterinarian how much exercise is too much at each stage of life.
  4. Ask your veterinarian how little exercise is too little at each stage of life.
  5. Find out from your veterinarian any specific breed requirements or conditions that might change the way you and your pet exercise.
  6. Discuss with your veterinarian the type of containment area that will provide optimal exercise opportunities for your pet.
  7. Remember to start slow and build up your pets exercise plan.
  8. Weather can play a big role in your daily exercise schedule. Cold, snow, ice, heat, storms, and wind can change your exercise plans daily. Be sure to have back up plans in case of foul weather.
  9. If your pet shows any signs of discomfort or pain during or after exercise, let your veterinarian know. They can give your dog a check up and look for any signs of arthritis or exercise related injury. Many new medications will allow your pet to continue with healthy exercise even as age and arthritis reduce their activity levels.

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