Just like humans, it is unhealthy for a dog to be overweight. The American Kennel Club warns that excess weight endangers the heart, lungs and joints and makes a dog more susceptible to other ailments. Here are a few feeding rules:

• Set regular mealtimes. An irregular eating schedule can affect your dog’s digestive system and ultimately cause chronic digestive disorders.

• It is important that your dog’s water and food bowls are kept in the same place every day. If you have more than one dog, make sure each dog has its own food and water bowl.

• Set a 30 minute rule. If your dog has walked away from its bowl, it has probably had enough to eat. Discard the remaining food, since exposed dog food is unsanitary.

• Resist giving your dog people food. A begging pooch can be hard to resist, but your dog doesn’t know how dangerous the meal you’re eating can be. Grapes, raisins, chocolate and onions are among some of the foods that can be toxic to your