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    3. EMPLOY PORTION CONTROL 

    It's easy to over feed your dog if you do not know how much your dog should actually be eating. Check your dog's food package for the proper amount suggested for your pet. Try to feed your dog on the lower end of the suggested amount. Then, using a measuring tool, determine how much food you should be feeding your dog. In a 2002 study, scientists at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine conducted research that showed dogs that were fed a calorie-restricted diet lived nearly two years longer than dogs consuming additional calories. That should be reason enough to control your dog's portions! (petMD)