Goldendoodles are adorable and friendly dogs that are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners. However, like any other dog breed, Goldendoodles are prone to weight gain if their diet and exercise routine are not properly managed. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to monitor your Goldendoodle’s weight to ensure they are healthy and happy.
In this article, we will discuss how to tell if your Goldendoodle is overweight and provide tips on how to maintain their ideal weight.
How to Tell if Your Goldendoodle is Overweight?
When you’re looking for signs of an overweight Goldendoodle, it’s important to understand what the ideal weight is for your dog. According to the American Kennel Club, the average male Goldendoodle weighs between 55 and 65 pounds when he’s fully grown. Female Goldendoodles tend to be slightly smaller than males and weigh between 45 and 55 pounds as adults.
If you suspect that your Goldendoodle may be overweight, there are some simple ways that you can check his body condition score (BCS). This measurement will help determine if he needs to lose weight or gain muscle mass in order to reach a healthy weight range again.
You can start by using a tape measurer or ruler to measure from the floor up over his withers (the highest point on his back) until it reaches his chest level; then double this measurement so that it equals four times around him at this point on his body.
Next use another measuring device such as string or ribbon wrapped around him at various points from nose tip down through tail base, as this should give an accurate representation of what size he currently is compared against other dogs within same breed standards.
Now you can go ahead subtract both numbers together; whichever number comes out lower indicates whether he should lose some pounds before being considered “overweight”.
Diseases Commonly Found in Overweight Goldendoodles
When a Goldendoodle becomes overweight, they are at an increased risk for a variety of health issues. Some of the most common diseases found in overweight Goldendoodles include:
- Heart Disease: When a dog is carrying extra weight, it puts a strain on their heart. This can lead to heart disease, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include fatigue, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
- Diabetes Mellitus: Dogs that are overweight are at a higher risk for developing diabetes mellitus, which is a condition where the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels. Symptoms may include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy.
- Arthritis: Extra weight puts added pressure on a dog’s joints, which can lead to arthritis. This is a painful condition that can cause stiffness, limping, and difficulty moving around.
- Skin Problems: Overweight Goldendoodles are more prone to skin problems such as allergies, hot spots, and yeast infections. These conditions can cause itching, redness, and discomfort.
- Respiratory Issues: When a dog is carrying extra weight, it puts pressure on their lungs and can make it difficult for them to breathe. This can lead to respiratory issues such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.
It’s important to note that these health issues can also occur in Goldendoodles who are not overweight, but the risk is significantly higher for those who are carrying extra weight. As a Goldendoodle owner, it’s important to be aware of these potential health issues and take steps to prevent them from occurring.
The best way to prevent these diseases is by keeping your Goldendoodle at a healthy weight. This can be achieved through a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise. Feeding your Goldendoodle a high-quality diet that is low in calories and high in fiber can help them maintain a healthy weight. Apart from that, regular exercise such as daily walks or playtime can help keep them active and healthy.
If you suspect that your Goldendoodle may be overweight or if they are showing any symptoms of the above-mentioned diseases, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you create a plan to help your Goldendoodle lose weight, manage their health conditions, and live a long and healthy life.
Adjusting the Diet
- Lower the calories. The first thing you’ll want to do is reduce your dog’s food intake. A good rule of thumb is that dogs should be fed no more than 1/2 cup per 10 pounds of body weight per day, which means that if your Goldendoodle weighs 50 pounds, he or she should eat no more than 25 ounces (1 pound) of food each day.
- Increase fiber intake by adding some fresh fruits and vegetables into their diets. This can help boost metabolism and make them feel fuller faster so they eat less overall.
Consult with your veterinarian before making any changes in diet; some dogs may have special dietary needs that require careful monitoring by a professional.
Check: Is My Goldendoodle Too Skinny
Preventing Weight Gain
A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best ways to prevent your Goldendoodle from gaining weight. If you want your dog to lose weight, try switching them to a diet that is lower in calories and fat.
You can also add more activity into their daily routine by taking them on walks around the neighborhood or playing with toys that encourage physical activity (like Kongs).
Conclusion
If you suspect that your Goldendoodle may be overweight, it’s important to take action to get them back to a healthy weight range. By adjusting their diet and exercise routine, you can help them lose weight and prevent future health problems.
Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your individual dog. By taking care of your Goldendoodle’s weight, you can help them live a long, healthy, and happy life.