The Dangers of Being Overweight for Dogs.

Oct 15, 20243 min read

Being overweight can have serious health consequences for dogs. Unfortunately, many pet owners may not realise the risks associated with extra weight or how to determine if their dog is overweight.

Here are some key points based on recent studies and surveys:

Prevalence of Overweight Dogs

Research indicates that approximately 40% of dogs in Europe are classified as overweight or obese. This figure can vary between countries, the UK lies at around 50% of dogs reported as overweight or obese, Denmark is at around 40%.

Obesity Rates

Among these overweight dogs, an estimated 20% to 30% are considered obese, defined as being 20% or more over their ideal body weight.

The Health Implications of Excess Weight

An overweight dog is at greater risk for various health issues, including but not limited to:

Joint Problems and Arthritis: Extra weight places more strain on a dog’s joints, which can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.
Heart Disease: Overweight dogs are at a higher risk for cardiovascular problems, the heart has to work harder to pump blood around the body.
Diabetes: Dogs that are overweight are more prone to developing diabetes, which requires lifelong management.
Shorter Lifespan: Studies have shown that overweight dogs can have a reduced lifespan of up to 2.5 years compared to dogs of ideal weight – for an average 12 year life expectancy for a dog that is 20% reduction in lifespan. In some cases, the reduction in lifespan can be even greater, particularly for severely obese dogs.
Difficulty Breathing: Excess fat can affect lung function, making it harder for overweight dogs to breathe, especially during exercise or in hot weather.
Decrease in quality of life: Combination of joint pain, difficulty breathing and temperature regulation means many overweight dogs are unable to run, explore and enjoy their lives to the fullest.

Breeds at Risk

Some breeds are more prone to obesity than others, including Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and Bulldogs. These breeds often have a genetic predisposition to gain weight and owners must therefore be even more vigilant.

Owner Awareness

Despite the high prevalence, many pet owners do not recognise their dogs as overweight. Surveys indicate that only about 30% of owners of overweight dogs believe their pet is overweight.

Impact of Diet and Lifestyle

A lack of exercise and high-calorie diets contribute significantly to obesity in dogs. The increased availability of pet treats andpoor quality kibble can also lead to overfeeding.

Overweight and obese dogs are typically inactive. If you notice that your dog has become a couch potato, has trouble walking, exhibits trouble breathing when walking, and generally appears to have trouble moving about, they might be overweight.

How to Tell if Your Dog is Overweight

Check Their Ribs: You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without pressing hard. If you can’t, or if there’s a thick layer of fat, your dog may be overweight. Remember that a healthy weight will look different for every breed. For example, most sighthounds should have visible ribs, whereas thick coated Samoyed may be difficult to feel due to the coat.
Look for a Waistline: When viewed from above, your dog should have an hourglass figure, with a visible waistline behind the ribs. A rounded shape or lack of waist suggests excess weight.
Examine the Tummy: Your dog’s abdomen should tuck up towards the hips. If the belly hangs down or is level with the chest, your dog may be carrying extra weight.
Weighing Your Dog: Regular weigh-ins at the vet or using a home scale can help track any weight gain. Your vet can also help determine your dog’s ideal weight based on breed, age, and size. The American Kennel Club has a breed average weight chart to give you an estimate of what your dog’s weight should be.

What to Do if Your Dog is Overweight

If you suspect your dog is overweight, consult your veterinarian for advice. A combination of a healthier diet, portion control, and regular exercise can help your dog shed the extra kilos and stay fit. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do to ensure a long, happy, and healthy life.

Here are some easy to follow steps to reducing your dog’s weight:

Determine their Body Conditioning Score (BCS)
Weigh them to determine their current weight
Determine their ideal weight and calculate their RER (Resting Energy Requirement)
Calculate their calorie requirement for weight loss (usually 1.0xRER for adult dogs)
Measure out their food each day (avoid giving extra treats, chews and food scraps during this period)

There are multiple pet calorie calculators online that can help you with these steps.