Natural Instinct launches a new campaign at Crufts to encourage the nation’s dogs to ‘Release the Pounds’.
Every new year, Brits across the UK pledge to stick to a healthier lifestyle with thousands determined to improve their diet and fitness levels. But, what about the nation’s canine friends?
Research of 2,000 dog owners in the UK, conducted by premium pet food brand, Natural Instinct, has revealed that a staggering 90% admit to feeding their dogs scraps and leftovers.
The data shows that, on average, dog owners who feed their canine pals’ scraps, typically do this 11 times a month. A lack of understanding is behind the scrap snacking, with over 1 in 3 (35%) confessing to having a very minimal understanding, or even no understanding at all, when it comes to what their dog can and can’t eat.
Correct portion size are also a conundrum amongst dog owners, as nearly 1 in 3 (36%) admit they have very little understanding on exactly what size meals to feed their dog.
As a result, over half said their dog’s diet needs improving and 42% admit they try to adopt a healthier diet for their dog in 2020, as well as themselves. When it comes to fitness, 54% also said their dog’s fitness needs improving this year.
A spokesperson for Natural Instinct comments: “We know ourselves that following a balanced diet along with regular exercise can make us feel more energised, fit and healthy. This is the same for our dogs. The last five years has seen a concerning increase in pet obesity, with an astonishing 51% of dogs overweight. It has never been more important to look after our canine friends.”
Kate Bendix, author of The Dog Diet, offers simple guidelines for keeping your dog fit, both mentally and physically. “Feed them roughly 2 to 3% of their bodyweight per day – making sure the food they get is what they need, not what those begging eyes want.
“Giving a 10kg dog one digestive is the equivalent to an 80kg human dunking eight in their cuppa – a sure fire to weight gain. A diet made from whole foods – meat, fish, veg and fruit is pretty much the perfect diet. Human processed food, sausages, gravy, pasta or bread for example are high in salt, sugar and fat which can affect their liver and kidneys.
“When it comes to fitness, going out for a 20-minute walk around the block and letting your dog meander and sniff every lamppost is the best thing, especially if you’re strapped for time. Sniffing is extremely good for mental health, as is the physical exercise and fresh air. Go at their pace and take a moment for yourself too.”
A Natural Instinct spokesperson concludes: “A dog’s diet is fundamental to give them the best chance at fighting health battles and a raw diet ensures they are getting all the vital vitamins, minerals and nutrients they need, in its purest form.
“With a significant 54% of dog owners believing their dog’s health and fitness needs improving, we’re calling on all pet owners to help their pooch ‘release the pounds’ and get fit and healthy this year.”
Dog owners can read more about health and nutrition including Kate’s tips and advice in the new Doggie Diet plan here.
