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Does Your Dog Need to Diet in Winter?

21. December 2024
It's a wellknown fact that dogs require more energy during the winter months. However, for the vast

It's a wellknown fact that dogs require more energy during the winter months. However, for the vast majority of domesticated canines in our country, their experience is quite different. They enjoy the luxury of air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter, much to the chagrin of their southern counterparts who might be longing for a bit of outdoor warmth. For these indoor dogs, as long as the temperature is comfortable, their owners don't need to刻意 boost their daily food intake. After all, their primary form of exercise is a walk, which doesn't burn up much energy.

But what happens when a dog's food intake is increased without a corresponding increase in exercise? By the time winter rolls around, these dogs are often heavier than ever. With more food consumed and less energy burned, the excess fat accumulates within their bodies, and you might even notice the extra weight next winter.

Obesity is now the leading cause of death in pets worldwide, without a doubt.

Why do dogs seem to gain weight despite not being overfed during the colder months?

As the temperature drops, both dogs and their owners are less inclined to venture outside, leading to a decrease in physical activity. This reduction in exercise directly translates to a decrease in energy expenditure.

But how can a dog gain weight without an increase in food consumption?

This phenomenon is actually tied to a dog's metabolism. In the winter, with the sun's appearance becoming scarce, a dog's brain detects this change and slows down hormone production. Concurrently, their metabolism also slows down, which promotes fat storage. These changes are genetically ingrained in dogs and are beyond our control.

So, how can we prevent obesity in our furry friends during the fall and winter seasons?

There's a universally applicable feeding method that serves as a catchall solution. If your dog gains weight during the winter, reduce their daily food intake by 10%; conversely, if they lose weight, increase their daily intake by 10%.

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