Diet

• According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, your dog may be overweight if you cannot see a noticeable waist between the back of your dog's rib cage and the hips when you look from above. When you view your pet from the side angle, there should be an inward tuck in the tummy.
  
  If your pet is overweight, a weight reduction plan consisting of low fat meals and exercise should be followed. There is no single weight loss regimen that will work for every dog. Breed, age, size, health condition and activity are all determinants of how a dog consumes and expend calories. Therefore you should first consult your veterinarian for specific food diets, caloric requirements and exercise plans before you drastically change your dog's diet and amount of activity.
  
  To reduce your dog's fat intake, you can do two things. One is to simply reduce the food she is already consuming. You could also switch to a special food diet that is low in fat, but contains sufficient nutrients. You should limit feeding your dog treats and, if you are, stop feeding her table scraps altogether.
  
  If you prefer to make low fat home-cooked meals for your dogs, be sure to avoid food items that are harmful to their health. See the Resources link for the ASPCA's list of foods to avoid giving your pet.
  
  There are many weight loss food products available in the market for dogs, but make sure that your pet is still getting adequate nutrition while losing weight. Fat is still a necessary part of any animal's diet, and there are good types of fat, such as the essential fatty acids, that are necessary for good health. When changing a dog's food diet, do so with your vet's recommendation and in a gradual manner to prevent any digestive issues.
  
  

Exercise

• Exercise is an essential part of any weight loss plan. Increasing your dog's physical activity along with a balanced diet will aid in weight loss and maintenance. Gradually lead your dog into being more active. Take more walks and let him play more often, or go out for a jog. Vary the activities to make it more enjoyable.
  Do not forget to keep your dog, and yourself, well hydrated.