I was in the same situation with Lady years ago and didn't realize how much overweight two pounds really is on a small dog. I learned the hard way when Lady was diagnosed with diabetes at age seven. Just like with people, obesity and genetics are the two big causes of diabetes in dogs.
If Lola is like my Lady, she lives to eat. I had no idea how I would get her to diet. Our salvation was frozen green beans. For some reason, most dogs love them. I thaw them slightly and cut them. Lady goes crazy for them! They are full of fiber so they fill them up.
I found treat dispensing toys to be a real help. Lady inhales her food. I found a Buster Cube to be great to put her kibble in. It is fun for them to chase the cube around as it plays on their natural prey instinct. It also slows them down and gives their brain a chance to register that they are full. I put her cut green beans in a Busy Buddy Twist and Treat. She loves that, too.
What are you feeding her now? I recommend a good quality higher protein food instead of the reduced calorie foods that have a lot of fillers. Dogs do really well on higher protein diets and it is much easier for them to digest since it is closer to their natural diet. Lady lost weight on Natures Variety Prairie.
The biggest thing is your mindset. You control the food so you have to resist the big brown eyes. Remind yourself it is for her health. Trust me, you don't want her to become diabetic and need insulin shots twice a day plus all the health complications that come with the disease. Being overweight is also very hard on their joints, especially their knees.
Good luck! |