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Given the popularity of fat-free food for people, many dog owners wonder if the same principle applies to dog food. If it’s good for me to eat fat-free foods, they wonder, is there such a thing as fat-free pet food that will offer benefits for my dog?
The answer is no for several reasons. Pet foods are different than human foods in that pet food supplies all the nutrition the animal receives, whereas people eat a variety of foods. Fat is an essential nutrient and a certain amount of fat in the pet's diet is critical. Eliminating it from pet food would remove it from that animal's diet completely.
But that doesn’t mean some dogs won’t benefit from losing weight. In fact, a large percentage of dogs in America are overweight, even though their owners don’t realize it. Like humans, overweight dogs are at risk for a variety of health conditions.
The best approach is to feed your dog properly and provide exercise so that extra pounds don’t become an issue. But if your veterinarian says your dog could stand to lose some pounds, you might be recommended a reduced calorie or "lite" food.
Remember: One of the best things you can do for your dog is keep him or her in ideal body condition.
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