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My rat terrier is a little over weight. I make her food at home, and I'm not sure how much I should feed her.
I mix 1 part ground meat, usually turkey, and 1 part filler, usually rice, and 1 part veggies. I give her about a cup full and she is a little on the chunky side. I know she needs to get more exercise too. She is going to be 6 years old May 1st.She weighs about 16 pounds and should weigh around 12.
Asked by
Mae Bea
on Apr 19th 2008
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in Food & Nutrition
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- This question is closed.
Best Answer
No matter if you are feeding a commercial diet or a homemade diet, the amounts to be fed need to be adjusted according to your pet's needs. If you're noticing an increase in weight, gradually decrease the amount you are feeding; if you are noticing a decrease in weight, gradually increase the amount you are feeding.
Every dog is different. Some have more active metabolisms than others, some get more exercise than others, etc. If your pup appears to be overweight, decrease the amount you are feeding and/or increase his/her exercise level. If, after 6-8 weeks of a change in diet +/- exercise level, you are not seeing any change in weight, it would be advisable to seek veterinary assistance to rule out adrenal/pituitary gland dysfunction.
Chompers, PhD answered on Apr 19th.
Other Answers
Answers
That percentage of excess is not a little overweight. It is obese. She is putting extra strain on her joints and squishing her internal organs. The proportions of her food is probably OK, but needs some supplementation, such as calcium, Vit C, lecithin, Vit A. Your local library may have Dr Pitcairn's Natural Health for Cats and Dogs. It has recipes for food and for amounts to supplement and amounts to feed. In the meantime, reduce her food to 3/4 of a cup and watch the treats. They add up, too.
If she hasn't been exercising, I'd start with short walks more often, instead of one long one.
She is a cute little dog and obviously well cared for. She can live a long and healthy life if you make these changes now.
Lily
answered on 4/19/08.
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