Chow Hounds: Why Our Dogs Are Getting Fatter and a Vet's Plan to Save Their Lives

Is Your Dog Big Boned, Overly Fluffy . . . Or Does He Need a Doggy Diet? 

Almost half of the dogs in North America are overweight or obese, putting them at risk for major medical problems and untimely death. Is your dog one of them?

Esteemed national television veterinarian and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, Ernie Ward has helped hundreds of dogs reclaim their optimum health with his comprehensive plan, and now he can help your dog, too. In this unprecedented look at how we care for our pets, Dr. Ernie opens our eyes to the shocking truth about why we have unknowingly created a Perfect Storm of Portly Pets. For example, did you know that many pet foods are so spiked with sugar and fat that they actually cause your dog to eat even when she isn't hungry? Or that many pet formulas are so loaded with carbohydrates that they're causing a nation of carboholic canines? And even worse: Most well-intentioned pet owners are overfeeding their dogs by 25 percent every day. The good news is there are simple ways you can turn the tide for good—and for the good of your dog. You'll discover:

• Must-know tips for stocking a healthy pet pantry
• Homemade meals and healthy treats that won't pack on the pounds
• How to avoid the unscrupulous marketing and packaging of some pet foods, supplements, and weight-loss formulas
• The best activities and exercises to maximize your pet's fitness without maxing out your time.

With cutting-edge science and ultra-practical tips, Dr. Ernie will help you give your dog the gift of great health that he or she deserves.

Dr. Ernest Ward, DVM, or "Dr. Ernie," is a practicing veterinarian who is dedicated to helping pets and their humans live healthier lives. He appears regularly on the Rachael Ray Show, and has been featured on Animal Planet, NBC Nightly News, the Today Show and CNN. He has authored and contributed to over fifty-five veterinary journal articles in North America, England, Canada, Japan, and China, and has published three books and three veterinary training videos. He lectures extensively in the United States, Canada, Europe, and China, and was awarded the Speaker of the Year award from the North American Veterinary Conference in 2004. An athlete himself, he is an avid racer certified personal trainer, triathlon coach and Ironman; he competed the inaugural Ford Ironman 70.3 World Championships and the 2008 Escape from Alcatraz triathlon.