How to Diet the Right Way
 

I am new to the forum and I joined because I was at the vet yesterday (routine check-up) and found that my female yorkie (3 years old) has gained a whole pound since August. I noticed that she was getting bigger but I didn't realize just how much. Ideally, I think she needs to lose 1.5 pounds. She currently weighs six but has a small frame.

I have been free feeding her (and my other Yorkie - a male without a weight issue @ 5 lbs) since I got her 2.5 years ago. I started her on Innova but she had trouble eating the large kibble so I switched them both to Solid Gold small bites about six months ago. When I noticed the weight gain (it was slow and steady), I started feeding them 1/8 cup solid gold dry mixed with 1 tbsp wellness wet in the morning and 1/4 cup dry solid gold at night and afternoon. At first, she would cry and scratch the closet door where the food is but she has seemed to stop.

After a month of this, I don't notice any change. She is crated while I'm at work with her brother, but she does play a lot with her brother and another yorkie (my roomates) when I get home from work. And I try to take her on a long hike every weekend. She is really athletic and usually takes the lead!

I don't want to cut her food down drastically all at once (It's really my fault - I didn't realize I'd been allowing her to over eat) Should I decrease her food again? Or should I just try to give her a bit more exercise?

Sorry the post is so long.

Welcome to YorkieTalk:)

I'd feed the minimum recommended amount on the bag for her weight or maybe just a little less. You can add green beans or lettuce to the diet to help make her feel full.

If she seems to gain on this food, maybe switch her?

Thanks - I was actually thinking of switching her back to innova -

Do you think i should look for a diet brand or no?

You could either feed less of a regular food or a reduced fat version. Whatever your preference is.:)