I’m a really big fan of feeding balls for this – they’re often sold as treat balls but instead of additional treats you just put the rationed dry dog food in for their meal. As it takes them time to roll the ball around to get the food out, their food intake is slowed down, which allows more time for the brain to receive the information that they have eaten (same theory as humans waiting 20 minutes before going for a second helping because often you find you’re not as hungry as you thought!)

Additionally they encourage gentle movement which is helpful for stiffer dogs especially as they sometimes give up before the ball is empty, then go back to finish it off later. It also provides mental stimulation which older dogs sometimes lack because they’re not up and about and “helping” you with everything anymore, or going for adventurous walks.

If you don’t have a feeding ball, you can also use the meal to scatter so they have to sniff it out – in the garden is lovely in the summer but around the house is also fine as well if you don’t mind the crumbs.

As with all new routines, start easy and give them plenty of help until the penny drops…

Pollyanna

I had a similar problem with my Labrador when I reduced his food portion- he started begging a lot, was hungry but didn’t seem to be getting any lighter. I started going to “weight watchers” at my vets and the nurse put him on “satiety” which is a diet for weight loss and he is much better on this. He has lost almost 8kg since starting on it and his mobility is so much better- he doesn’t get stiff and sore after his walks and isn’t as breathless when he is out running around. He is on Metacam too and takes a supplement each night.

Chris Jones

Great thank you. I shall give my vets a call in the morning and see if they stock it or have anything that works the same way. “Weight watchers” sounds like a good idea too if they have it.. I’m quite disciplined but my kids are bad for feeding lots of treats so maybe if I take them with me to that they’ll learn why it’s important!

Maria

I buy it from my vets and they have a loyalty scheme so every few months I get a free bag. We used to go in every 2 weeks to see one of the vet nurses (who he loves!) for free and she would weigh and measure him. Now we go in once a month just to keep me motivated really. He’s a lot less hungry on this food and he seems to really enjoy it!

Have you thought about hydrotherapy? My sister used to take her dog and found it helpful. There isn’t a pool near to me unfortunately or I would give it a try.

Chris