Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How a computerized diet helped overweight dogs lose weight
By Saker, Korinn E & Remillard, Rebecca L·Published in Veterinary therapeutics : research in applied veterinary medicine·2005·Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Performance of a canine weight-loss program in clinical practice.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of overweight dogs participated in a weight-loss program that included a special low-calorie food and a software tool to help owners manage their dog's daily calorie intake. Over a period of 3 to 6 months, the dogs lost an average of 0.75% of their body weight each week, helping them reach a healthier weight. The software improved in accuracy over time, making it easier for owners to track their dog's progress. Overall, all the dogs in the program successfully lost weight and achieved a better body condition score.
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Abstract
Two canine studies evaluating the effectiveness of a specific computerized weight reduction program in two different clinical settings are summarized to give an overall assessment of an obesity management software program. The weight loss program utilizes a low calorie food formulation (dry, canned and treat) and software to suggest daily calorie intake for weight loss. The software utilizes current body weight and a desired weekly rate of weight loss to predict the dog's body weight in 30 days. The dietary product and software were used in a 3- and 6-month weight loss regime for 60 overweight adult dogs in two different clinical settings. On average, the dogs in this summary lost 0.75% per week regardless of more aggressive rates set by the nutritionist. Accuracy in predicting future weights by the software was dependent upon the desired rate of weight loss selected, the equation used to estimate maintenance energy requirement, and owner compliance. Over time, accuracy in predicting future canine weights improved. All healthy, overweight or obese dogs summarized in these two studies did lose weight and reached an optimal or at least lower body condition score with the aid of this software program and diet.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16550491/