overweight chihuahua

[debbie1255]

i have an 8 year old chihuahua (rosa).  I also have 3 other dogs, which are NOT overweight by the way.  Two other chihuahuas and a mexican hairless.  She's not overeating but is still over weight.  I had her on weight loss medication and she lost a few pounds but i just didnt feel right keeping her on it because its not good for their systems.  Does anyone have any ideas about how i can have her loose weight but not the other three.  

[ginger899]

What exactly is the weight loss medication? Thyroid could be an issue, or there could be water retention caused by a number of problems. I would get her a full blood count as well as thyroid check.
My other dog used to gnaw on raw carrots like bones. He thought they were a great treat! But Misty will only eat them steamed or cooked with her meat.

[Margot49]

Good!  Just make sure you cut it 1/2 to 1/2 or 3/4 kibble to 1/4 beans because the beans aren't really that nutritious but it may help get the weight off.  Of course, when she gets to the desired weight, re-evaluate your food and try a Senior or lower protein/fat food.
Good idea to get the thyroid checked. Ask the Vet to do a T-3, T-4.

Lucky you she will eat carrots. I've tried giving them to my dogs and only one would eat them the rest of them spit them right out.  LOL  :-)

[debbie1255]

Thanks for the tip.  she loves green beans.  As far as treats I've been trying to give her non-fat ones like carrots.  She is due for her shots so I'll have them check her thyroid at the same time.  

[Margot49]

Well, first off, I would have her thyroid checked.
At that age, she can be on a Senior food with lower protein.  Are you withholding treats?  Will she eat carrots or something for a treat?
Okay, I used to show dogs and we had  diet we used if the dogs got too overweight. We took half their kibble and the other half was green beans.  You want to use low sodium canned (you can rinse them off) or frozen, etc.  Dogs always did okay on this until we got them at the weight they should have been on.