Expert: Kaza - 2/18/2010

Question
I have a 5 yr old male Bichon Frise and we have been told that he is overweight. We take him on 3 walks a day and he usually starts to sprint the first 5 mins so exercise is not a problem. He loves to eat and we have tried to feed him less but, he has been crying for food. I know the obesity is bad for him and I we are willing to do what is best for him because we want him to be healthy and live longer. We are not dog breeders and did not get him from a dog breeder. Please help us. We have tried researching what and how is the best way to start and have even spoken with his Vet but, we have not gotten a clear answer on the steps we need to take. PLEASE HELP SAVE our babies life!

Answer
Hello Leticia
First I am glad that you are taking these steps, it wont be easy but it will be beneficial for you all. I trust a vet has said he is over weight and he has no ongoing health problems. To be clear and what needs to be done I need his height, weight, length from nose to tail, age etc.
Once I have these I can give you a plan to follow but this must be stuck fast with and no treats to deter progress. We have an online clinic and advice group called www.eurobichons.com and we have given many bichons a new lease on life with our plans for a happy healthy fit for LIFE rules.