Obesity in dogs

Obesity is a nutritional disease in which a dog carries too much body fat. Dogs that are overfed, under-exercised or naturally gain weight easily are more at risk. Those little rolls of excess fat might look cute, but they can affect your dog's health and quality of life.

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for their health.

Why obesity matters

Obesity can have a serious effect on a dog's health and can shorten their life. Extra weight puts pressure on joints and bones, and it can also affect the organs and breathing.

Any dog can become overweight, whatever their breed or age, but it is often seen in middle-aged dogs. Dogs that spend most of their time indoors are also more at risk.

Signs your dog may be overweight

• You can't easily feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat.
• They have lost the visible waist behind the ribs.
• Their weight has been creeping up.
• They are reluctant to exercise, or struggle with it.

What causes obesity in dogs?

The most common cause is an imbalance between food and exercise. If a dog eats more than they burn off, they put on weight. This can become more of a problem as a dog ages and can't exercise as much as they did when they were younger.

Too many treats, unsuitable food and human leftovers all add up. As tempting as it is to share your dinner, it isn't part of a balanced diet for a dog, and some human foods are toxic to dogs.

Some medical conditions can also contribute to weight gain, including:

• insulinoma
• hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid)
• hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease)

If your dog is gaining weight without eating more, or has other changes such as drinking more, hair loss or tiredness, ask your vet to check them.

Neutered dogs may need less food, so ask your vet about adjusting portions.

How vets assess obesity

Your vet will weigh your dog and assess their body condition by feeling over the ribs, spine, hips, tail base and waist. The results are compared with a body condition score chart, which helps show whether your dog is underweight, ideal, overweight or obese.

Dogs 10-20% above their ideal weight are usually considered overweight, and more than 20% above obese.

Helping your dog lose weight

Treating obesity means steady weight loss, then keeping the weight off over the long term, with help from your vet. Your vet can work out how much your dog should eat each day and may recommend a diet designed for weight loss. Don't cut your dog's food drastically on your own.

Weight-loss diets are usually designed to help dogs feel full while eating fewer calories. Your vet can advise which type of food suits your dog.

Exercise matters too. Your vet can advise how much exercise suits your dog's age, breed and health. Games such as fetch, and puzzle feeders, also help keep your dog's mind busy.

Sticking with the plan

Following a weight-loss plan for your dog means keeping in regular contact with your vet practice. They will weigh your dog over time to check they are losing weight safely and adjust the plan if needed. With patience from you and support from your vet, your dog can reach a healthy weight and feel better for it.