Dog Obesity: Signs, Risks and Solutions

Dog obesity is a serious health issue affecting 25-40% of dogs. Here's what you need to know.

Is Your Dog Overweight? The Rib Test

Run your hands along your dog's sides:

  • Ideal: Ribs easily felt with slight fat covering
  • Overweight: Ribs felt only with pressure
  • Obese: Ribs cannot be felt

Body Condition Score (BCS)

ScoreConditionAction
1-3UnderweightIncrease food
4-5IdealMaintain
6-7OverweightReduce 10-15%

Health Risks of Obesity

  • Joint problems (arthritis, hip dysplasia worsening)
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Heart disease
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Reduced lifespan (up to 2 years shorter)
  • Increased surgical risk

Weight Loss Plan

Caloric Reduction

  • Reduce daily intake by 20-25%
  • Switch to weight management food
  • Measure all portions (no guessing)
  • Zero table scraps

Exercise Increase

  • Start slowly (10 min walks, build up)
  • Swim if joints are affected
  • Play sessions count

Treat Strategy

  • Treats = maximum 10% of daily calories
  • Use vegetables (carrot, cucumber, green bean)
  • Cut treats into smaller pieces

Timeline

  • Week 1-2: Adjustment
  • Month 1: 1-2% body weight loss expected
  • Month 3-6: Target 3-5% total loss
  • Never lose more than 1-2% per week
8-9ObeseVet consultation