Feeding Guide for Dogs

To help an overweight dog lose weight you may need to adjust the portion size of their daily meals. Always follow the feeding guidelines specified for your dog’s weight, if you are feeding the correct amount and your dog still needs to lose weight then we would recommend reducing the daily amount by an additional 10% and contacting your vet to discuss their body condition score in more detail. Alongside this monitor your dog’s weight on a regular basis and avoid feeding treats. Wagg Senior contains L-carnitine which may also help with weight control in older, less active dogs.

• The kibbles from Wagg Complete dog foods make great rewards for training – tasty, but wholesome treats. Wagg Training Treats are suitable to use with your dog from 8 weeks onwards..
• Make sure all family members use the same commands and only add a new command once your dog is familiar with the previous command.
• Although it is easier said than done, training every day will help you and your dog bond, and remember training can be carried out as part of play and in many different locations. If training becomes integrated with your daily routine it will teach your dog to listen to you in all situations, not just at ‘training time’.
• Always end your training session on a positive note, and remember to have fun!
• We would always recommend taking your dog to puppy and training classes as not only will you be able to receive help and support as you train your dog, but it will increase their socialisation skills with other dogs.

• Try and get your dog into a routine when feeding, some dogs can become fussy eaters if they have access to food all day.
• You could try moistening dry food, or heating up wet food in the microwave for 20 seconds to improve palatability (just remember not to put metal bowls in the microwave and ensure food isn’t too hot before serving to your dog!)
• If you have any concerns regarding your dog’s eating habits, always talk to your vet as a loss of appetite could be a sign of illness.
• Try disguising pills by wrapping them in a favourite food. Small pieces of meat or cheese can work well, or why not try our Wagg Meaty Chunks. These delicious treats have a small dent in the top ideal for hiding a tablet.

• Try putting your dog’s meal in a Kong or puzzle feeder to help slow down their feeding time.
• If your greedy dog develops food aggression, we recommend talking to a local dog training school as they should be able to provide advice on how to help your dog overcome this.

• Start by only leaving your dog for short periods of time, and gradually increasing the amount of time you are out of the house.
• If your dog cries when left alone for a period of time try turning on the radio as you leave. Some dogs find this comforting.
• Some dogs may prefer having a crate/safe place that they can go to while you are out of the house.
• Never leave your dog unattended in a hot car!

• To help prevent weight gain try feeding smaller portions 2 to 3 times a day. This helps to increase an older dog’s metabolism and burn calories.
• Older dogs need mental stimulation just as much as younger dogs so you can still introduce new games, toys and maintain their training routines as they get older.
• Swimming and walking can help reduce joint stiffness in an older dog, however, be careful not to over-exercise them as this may have the opposite effect – if you have any concerns talk to your vet.
• Older dogs may need more comfort breaks than a younger dog, including overnight.
• Older dogs can benefit from joint supplements such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin. These supplements can be found in Wagg Senior dog food.

• Follow feeding guidelines for your dog’s weight stated on the packaging. If you are feeding the correct amount and your dog still needs to lose weight cut back on the amount of food you are feeding by a further 10% and speak to a vet if there’s still no improvement.
• Increase the amount of exercise your dog takes if possible. This can include throwing a ball for him whilst on your normal walk.
  If you currently feed any treats, use part of your dogs daily food allowance for this.
• Study at the dog body condition score guides on large packs of Wagg or on our website.
• If possible, increase the amount of exercise your dog takes. This can include throwing a ball for him or her whilst out on your normal walks.
• If you currently feed any treats, use part of your dogs daily food allowance instead and leave the treats out.
• If your dog still appears hungry when he/her has been fed, you could try soaking the food in a little water before you feed it. This swells the food and leaves your dog feeling more satisfied.
• If your dog is a fast eater, try to slow him down, that way he will register that he is full sooner. You can do this by making him work to get his food.
  i. There are special bowls with a raised centre so that your dog has to eat around this.
  ii. Or you can raise the dog’s bowl a little way off the ground.
  iii. Or you can make your dog hunt for his food, sprinkle part of the food around the kitchen or garden, or use a feeding ball such as a Kong.
• The main thing is to feed the right amount of food for the energy he is using. If you feed less than this they will lose weight, if you feed more they will gain.