Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the pet population and is the leading nutritional-associated health condition affecting dogs. A recent study conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found that 35% of dogs are overweight and 20% are obese. This is an alarming statistic! In essence, it means that there are approximately 43 million dogs that are either overweight or obese. Because obesity predisposes dogs to serious medical conditions, it is important that owners recognize and prevent obesity in their pets.

Animal are considered obese when they are about 20% over their ideal weight. The best way to determine if your dog is overweight is to run your hands along your dog’s ribcage, view your dog from the side, and view your dog from above. If your dog is at an ideal weight, you will be able to feel the ribs covered by a thin layer of fat, see an upward tuck of the abdomen, and see a narrowing of the waist directly in front of the hips. If a dog is overweight, it will be difficult to feel the ribs, there will be little upward tuck, and the waist will be absent in front of the hips.

Obesity most commonly occurs in middle aged dogs. It is usually a gradual process, and, therefore, many owners are not aware that their dog is actually gaining weight. The most common cause of obesity is overeating and lack of exercise. This combination results in an energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended with the excess stored as fat. There are also certain medical conditions that can cause weight gain. Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, Diabetes Mellitus, and Insulinomas can all contribute to weight gain in animals. Additionally, it is believed that there is a link between a dog’s genetic makeup and obesity. More specifically, certain breeds possess a gene that alters their metabolism, thereby making them more prone to obesity. Included in this group are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Shelties, Collies, Basset Hounds, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, King Charles Cavalier Spaniels, Cairn Terriers, and Dachshunds, to name a few. In order to determine if there is a medical condition responsible for your dogs weight gain, your veterinarian will need to run blood test to rule out an underlying disease.

Canine obesity is a serious medical problem that puts dogs at risk to develop a number of health conditions. Obese dogs are more prone to developing the following diseases and disorders:

• Heart disease and increase blood pressure
• Respiratory disorders
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Decrease liver function
• Musculoskeletal disorders – arthritis, cruciate rupture, patella luxation, intervertebral disc disease
• Skin disease
• Increased risk of cancer
• Reproductive problems
• Decreased immunity to diseases
• Digestive disorders
• Decreased stamina and endurance
• Heat and exercise intolerance

Weight loss in dogs is accomplished by reducing the caloric intake as well as by increasing the amount of calories burned through exercise. It is best to consult with your veterinarian to develop a weight loss plan that is suitable for your dog. A diet that is high in protein and fiber, but low in fat, is typically recommended for weight loss. It must be remembered, however, that overconsumption of even this type of food can cause weight gain. Use a measured scoop and institute a set feeding time twice daily. In addition, limiting dog treats and feeding only low calorie treats is vital for successful weight loss. It is also critical to increase the amount of your dog’s exercise, as this is a key component of any weight loss program. It is best to start slow and gradually increase the amount of exercise in accordance with your dog’s age and physical condition. For example, taking short walks a few times a day or playing fetch is a good place to start. The amount and intensity of exercise can be increased over time.

Although canine obesity is a preventable disease, it is major problem that continues to rise. Left untreated, obesity can cause serious medical conditions and ultimately shorten your dog’s lifespan. If your dog is overweight, it is imperative to establish a weight loss program, set up realistic goals, and monitor your dog’s weight on a monthly basis to increase the likelihood of success. It is your responsibility as a pet owner to ensure that your dog receives proper nutrition by feeding the correct amount of high quality food and by providing adequate exercise. After all, you are in complete control of your dog’s food intake and your dog is relying on you to make the best decisions for a long and healthy life.