Dog Toys for Weight Loss
Obesity in dogs is a growing epidemic. Just as in people, obesity in pets can contribute to several disease states, not to mention making pets work harder to cool off in hot temperatures, and giving arthritic joints on older dogs a harder time carrying around weight. Here are some great toys to get your dog excited about trimming down.
The Kibble Nibble Toy will make Fido work for his meals.
First, let’s look at the Kibble Nibble dog toy. This great item holds up to two cups of dog food, and makes your dog really work for a meal. This is great because your dog will exercise as he plays, will not gulp down his food too quickly, and will get to live out his instinct to hunt for food. This toy also has rubber guards on it to prevent any damage to walls, floors, or furniture. You can buy it here.
Perhaps you have a dog that isn’t keen on exercise, but is very food motivated. To give your dog a tasty treat without all those extra calories try the automatic bubble machine. It sends a multitude of chicken scented bubbles flying through the air for your pup to chase down and pop! Check out the Gazillion Bubbles machine here.
A tasty treat that isn't high in calories!
If you really want to be involved in getting your dog into shape, try agility. Agility is a great way for your dog to loose weight. Dogs love agility courses because they present a fun challenge, not to mention agility training creates a strong bond between dog and owner. Conditioning is necessary so in addition to agility training you will have to take your dog on several long walks a week. If you have a puppy, do not have them do jumps until their bone structure is mature. Several puppy parks may offer agility courses on site, and you can make your own agility obstacles at home. For an easy, professional looking course at home, check out the agility equipment at Dr. Fosters and Smith. Check out their agility sets here!
Training your dog in agility is a great way to keep them trim.
The Physipet is a great invention that interacts with your pet, even if you aren’t around! It is not some one directional toy. Instead, it interacts and moves based on how your dog chooses to play with it. If your dog tugs, it resists. When your pet release, it recoils. The Physipet ahs been tested in doggie daycares around the US and Canada. The Physipet is great for dogs with separation anxiety and boredom aggression. Check out Physipets page here.
For another great product that allows you to sit and watch while Fido runs around, try the GoDogGo Automatic Fetch Machine. This toy can operate automatically or via remote control. It throws balls 15 to 30+ feet every 7-15 seconds. The machine has a 15 ball capacity, and also has a drop bucket, so that your dog can keep the play going as long as he wants. And it can be powered by AC adaptor or batteries. Check out the product here.
Your pet is sure to love these products! And you will love how much healthier and happier your pet is after shedding those unwanted pounds. Keeping your pet fit and trim can add years onto their life, and don’t we all want more time with our best friends?
The GoDogGo is the perfect toy for your ball-obsessed dog!
Great post and your videos are really helpful. I recently started taking an agility class with my dog, and we both love it! It’s something different than our regular nightly walks.
Also, on behalf of Drs. Foster and Smith, we thank you for the mentions in this post!