People aren’t the only ones who struggle with obesity. Man’s best friend also deals with putting on a few extra pounds as they age. According to a survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), 59% of dogs in 2022 across the United States were considered overweight or obese.
Sadly, during the global pandemic, many dog owners’ bad habits, such as overeating and lack of physical activity, were carried out in their pets’ daily routines. According to pet insurance company Pumpkin, 56% of responders highlight that when they gained weight during the pandemic, their dogs did too.
Dr. Kelly Cairns, Thrive Pet Healthcare’s VP of Medical Excellence and Education, elaborates, “Obesity in dogs poses serious health risks, including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, compromising their quality of life. Many pet owners tend to overlook signs of obesity, making it essential to detect it early. Overfeeding, improper diets, and insufficient exercise are common contributors to canine obesity.”
Helping your overweight dog lose weight requires immediate action to prevent life-threatening diseases and help your canine companion live their best life.
How To Tell if Your Dog Is Overweight or Obese
Dr. Karen Shenoy, DVM, and Chief Veterinary Officer for Hill’s Pet Nutrition, explains, “If you think your pet has gained weight, there’s a way to tell if they are overweight or obese. You can do a quick assessment and visual check. This includes feeling for your dog’s ribs and checking their waistline (behind their chest).”
Dogs at a healthy weight should have ribs that can be easily felt, without having to apply lots of pressure. If you have to apply pressure, your dog is overweight. Similarly, their ribs should not be visible. In that instance they are probably underfed. Their waistline should also be visible when looked at from above. Recognizing the signs of pet obesity is crucial.
Other experts recommend using online, free tools, like the L.O.V.E. test. That assessment from Hill’s Pet provides easy-to-follow steps to help owners properly evaluate their pet’s feeding patterns and body type before approaching their vet about helping their dog lose weight.
Slimming Down Tips for Dog Owners
Reducing a dog’s weight involves a vet-approved diet, fewer treats, and a consistent exercise routine, such as regular walks and physical activities. Dr. Daisy May, MRCVS BVSc (Distinction) Veterinary Surgeon at Dog Lovely, adds, “Ensure your dog gets a diet rich in nutrients but controlled in calories, akin to choosing a meal that’s satisfying yet healthy. Regular exercise is the complementary piece, just as vital as a balanced diet.”
When on a mission to slim down your dog, feed them no more than twice a day with an interval of 8 to 12 hours from their last meal. Furthermore, control the portions based on your vet’s recommendations.
To increase exercise, walk your dog a few blocks in your neighborhood three to four times a week. Once they’re used to going on daily walks, running around the block in your neighborhood.
Vets state that, just like humans, our pets need exercise to manage their weight as well. It’s important to know what works for your pets’ individual needs and consider your pets’ starting weight, breed, age, and health conditions before starting your dog’s fitness journey.
Introducing Dogs to Fun Outdoors
Dog owners should try to make doing active things with their dogs fun for both the human and the pet. One enjoyable activity is taking dogs to nearby lakes or rivers during the summer or on hot days. It’s a refreshing way for pets to cool off and gives them enough room to play and run around.
Another great option is hiking. Dogs and their owners get to explore nature and experience a change in environment. Hiking not only improves a dog’s mood but also deepens its connection with the owner.
Another easy way to increase your pet’s daily exercise? Take them to a local dog park and let them run and play to their heart’s content. These spaces allow dogs to stay active, socialize, and make new friends. Owners must ensure their dogs are well-behaved and trained for social interactions to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all.
Benefits of a Healthy Dog
Responsible owners have healthy and fit dogs. Being healthy and fit is also good for your dog’s mental health, allowing them to play more and not get tired. Making sure they get regular exercise also keeps you moving more.
Experts link proper weight management in dogs to extended life spans and reduced disease risk — for both of you.
This proactive approach to pet health ensures the animal’s physical and mental well-being and fosters a more active and enjoyable life. The average cost of a visit to the vet is $61. Maintaining a dog’s ideal weight also lessens the need for veterinary visits, providing financial relief to owners.
Owners hold a pivotal role in the pet’s health and fitness. There are challenges but also rewards. This process can be celebrated and shared.