over weight dachshund

[Lamphier1]

<p>My question is I have a 17 month old doxie and is was over weight at 17 pounds . Then he delveloped an allergic rection to something this summer so the vet put him on prednisone. I put him on a diet of a half a cup of purina one in the morning and a half a cup in the evening and started walikng him he was eating freely now I just weighed him now he is up to 24 pounds. He should weigh 12 pounds. I have called the vet to see what can be done but have not heard back yet. Part of the reason he became over weight is the top of he femur bone died and had to be cut offso no exercise for a while. How do I get this weight off so he will be healthy?</p>

[Allin1PetCare]

<p>Hi there,</p>
<p>A couple of things that you may already know.&nbsp; Dachshunds tend to gain weight and become overweight quickly. Therefore their meals always need to be heavily regulated. Also, one of Prednisone's side-effects is weight gain, However prednisone is usually prescribed for 2 weeks or less, and therefore not in their system long enough to cause weight gain. How long has he been on prednisone?</p>
<p>I would recommend switching to a small dog diet formula, (there are some out there especially formulated for Dachshunds).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Stop free-feeding and only leave the food down for 15-20 minutes max. This will help increase his metabolism.</p>
<p>Swimming is a great form of exercise and reduces the pressure on their hips and spine. As you know, spine, hip, and leg&nbsp;problems are other health issues that Dachshunds are prone to have. This is something you can do in your tub (since he's small) just buy a harness and hold him place while he paddles (a great bonding opportunity too!). </p>
<p>Be Blessed,</p>
<p>Arlene, All In One Pet Care</p>

[Lamphier1]

<p>Thanks for your answer.He has been on prednisone for most of the summer. My vet called me back on Monday the 29 th and she has now taken him off prednisone. I am now feeding a fourth cup a food four times a day. if he starts ithcing again she said to buy benadry and give a 1/2 tablet. if he breaks out again she said,' he will have to go back on prednisone. She also said he should lose weight now he is off prednisone. Exercise is really importantbut I am not to go any father than he wants when we walk because of his weight and the potential for his back to go bad.</p>

[Allin1PetCare]

<p>I'm glad to hear the good news!&nbsp; Remember: 15 minutes of swimming is approximate to 1 mile of walking with less strain on his joints! :)</p>
<p>Be Blessed,</p>
<p>Arlene, All In One Pet Care</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>