Happy New Year! Have you made any resolutions? How about for your dog? Here at Paws for Purple Hearts, we take special care in ensuring our Service Dogs-In-Training maintain a healthy weight in order to best serve our Warriors. If your husky is looking a little too husky or your pup’s lookin a little plump, we have some tips to get them back into tip-top shape!

Your veterinarian is the best person to ask about your dog’s ideal weight, as there are many differences between breeds, but there are some visual cues to look for in between vet visits. There is a simple assessment you can use called the “Body Condition Score” Where 1 is severely underweight, and 9 is very overweight. Your dog’s score should be between a 4 and a 5 their entire lives. Based on the scale your dog’s tummy should be noticeably tucked but not exaggerated, and there should be a clear waistline. You may not be able to see their ribs, but you should be able to feel them and your dog’s spine.

If your dog falls on the higher end of the score, the first thing you should take note of is how they’re eating. Your dog should be eating a high-protein, low-carb diet. Use a measuring cup to portion out their food rather than an unmarked scoop so you know exactly what amount you are feeding. Dogs are often unable to “self-regulate” what they eat. Here at PPH, our dogs are Labradors and Golden Retrievers and they love, love, love to eat! Rather than leaving food out all day, give dedicated meal times, but keep water out all day. Try feeding your dog out of a slow-feeder or treatball. Not only does feeding this way engage your dog mentally, but taking longer to eat makes your dog feel fuller. When reducing portions, it’s important to do so gradually. Keep track of their weight every few weeks. A quick weight-loss is very unhealthy, and hard dieting is not comfortable for anyone, your dog included!