Christmas is a time for indulging, and while we’ve been tucking into turkey with all the trimmings, dogs across the country have been waiting by their owner’s feet, mopping up the leftovers.
But all these extra treats mean it isn’t exactly the healthiest time for dogs either.
A survey conducted by the charity Guide Dogs, carried out by OnePoll, found that over a quarter (27%) of dog owners surveyed said their dog eats more than usual at this time of year, and a third (34%) admitted to giving their pups additional treats.
A quarter (26%) worry their friends or family will give their dog extra treats when they’re not looking, and 19% said that after a few drinks they’d be more likely to share festive party food with their dog.
And the additional food isn’t being walked off either, with a quarter (25%) of the 2000 owners surveyed saying they take their dogs for fewer strolls over the Christmas period.
Excuses for staying indoors include things like the cold weather, wanting to stay cuddled up with their pup watching festive films and TV shows, and staying inside because of shorter daylight hours (45%).
So if your pet needs a New Year fitness regime, Guide Dogs has some helpful tips.
Tim Davies, chief veterinary officer at Guide Dogs said: ‘Christmas is often a time of over-indulgence – and whilst it’s inevitable dogs might enjoy an extra treat or two over the festive season, it’s important they are kept active and maintain a healthy diet, to avoid putting on weight.
‘Almost a third (29%) of those surveyed would like to know how to keep their dog’s fitness and health the best it can be.
‘Our tips will help dog owners across the country feel inspired to get out and about with their dog and even include some fun fitness ideas to do from the comfort of your own home.’
Exercise tips from Guide Dogs
- Up your dog’s exercise with more frequent or longer walks, but remember to build these up slowly, especially if your dog is older or has health conditions.
- Make running around more stimulating with games such as frisbee and fetch.
- Play hide and seek and have your dog run between hidden two family members. This works best in the woods where there are plenty of trees and bushes to crouch behind, or even around the house.
- Make play dates with your dog’s canine friends and let them really blow off steam off-lead in the park.
- Swimming is low impact on the joints and so much fun if your dog is a real water baby. On icy days, head to your local canine hydrotherapy pool.
- Swap arms day at the gym and play tug-of-war instead. Pick up a rope toy and get your dog pulling and pulling.
- Use your dog’s dinner to create sniff and search games around the house to make meal times more fun and last longer.
More weight tips from Guide Dogs
- If your dog’s ribs are well hidden below a layer of fat, and they are missing a nipped waist and tummy tuck, they could be carrying too much weight.
- Your vet will be able to weigh your dog and give them a body condition score out of nine. Five is the ideal size for your dog to be, with between six and nine representing increasing degrees of obesity.
- Your vet can also offer advice about food and exercise personalised to your dog’s age and health, to help get them back on the right track.
- Remember to always consult your vet before changing your dog’s diet or exercise routine.
- Dogs classed as overweight or obese are more prone to an array of aliments, including heart disease and cancer.
- Weighing too much also puts increased strain on your dog’s joints, which can cause serious issues with the back, hips and elbows.
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