One of the toughest things to do in the fall and winter months is to maintain our weight. The same is true for your Labrador retriever dog. When it’s colder outside, chances are you don’t exercise with your dog as much, which can lead to an increase in weight. No one wants a fat Labrador, but the good news is you can help them slim down in no time. Taking gradual steps, like changing the type of Labrador food and reducing frequency of treats, can go a long way in helping make your Lab as healthy as possible. Here are some of the most effective ways to help your pooch slim down.
Change Up Your Lab’s Food
Switching your Labrador food to a healthier alternative is a great change to make. Organic or premium dog food has the essential nutrients needed to help Labradors maintain a healthy weight, without having a lot of added preservatives. Plus, your Labrador food option could give your dog more energy so they will be more willing to go outside and exercise if they are generally lazy by nature.
Reduce The Frequency of Treats
It’s fun to see the excitement on your Labrador’s face when they know they’re getting a treat. As tempting as it may be to always give them one, it could be a major reason why they’ve gained weight in the first place. Your end goal may be to eliminate treats completely, or at least take them out of the daily schedule. After a few days of no treats, your dog will likely forget they exist. This is especially true if you hide them in a location they are unfamiliar with. There are plenty of healthy options to still reward your dog with for good behavior, so consider switching to one of those choices such as carrots or green beans.
Make A Point to Exercise With Your Lab
It can sometimes be difficult to get your Labrador retriever dog up and moving when they’ve been lazy for several months in a row. However, you have to make it a point to exercise with them frequently. You may actually have to bribe them with a treat the first few times, but you can eventually eliminate those once a routine is created. Start off with a slow walk and gradually increase the intensity and distance. Just be sure to monitor your dog’s actions and know when it’s time to take a break or give them water.
Everyone wants their Labrador retriever dog to live a long and healthy life. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to help them do so. As we approach summer, it’s time to start changing food and exercise habits. This will ensure your Labrador will be slimmer and healthier during the warmer months.
