Is My Dog Overweight? Signs to Watch Out for and What to Do

As a dog owner, your dog’s weight is a big teller of overall health. To ensure that your dog has a well-to-do overall well-being, one must ensure that they are of a healthy weight, don’t carry excess weight, and generally have a stable and healthy body condition.

An obese dog might be charming, but canine obesity, in general, is not a good sign. So, how can you tell if your dog is overweight? This article goes through it all, from weight assessment to the health risks of an overweight dog and how to build a balanced diet to keep your dog in shipshape.

And, of course, the fundamental need to identify the signs of overweight conditions, some of which aren’t as obvious as one would think.

Assessing Your Dog’s Weight

If you suspect your dog is overweight, the first step is to assess their weight with body condition scoring (BCS). This is done by evaluating the waistline, abdomen, and ribs by sight and touch. Ideally, you want the ribs to be apparent by touch and have minimal fat. Also, you need to see a subtle inward curve behind the ribs.

BCS is measured on a scale of 1-9, and a score in the middle range is optimal. A BCS score in the higher range (6-7) is considered overweight, and a score that exceeds the BCS is considered morbidly obese.

This differs from breed to breed too. A St. Bernard can be measured differently from a chihuahua, for example.

Signs of an Overweight Dog

There are many signs to watch out for to decipher if a dog is overweight or dog obesity, including the following: increased fat deposits, difficulty feeling ribs, and a lack of a visible waist.

Physiologically, your dog may be reluctant to exercise, suffer from shortness of breath, and experience other health issues. It might also become more difficult to groom your dog due to their overweight shape.

Understanding the Health Risks

As dog parents, we must watch out for our furry friends’ health issues. It is no different here. An overweight dog, whether a labrador retriever or a poodle, must take in and burn off the right amount of calories, or else your overweight dog could end up with heart conditions, joint problems, and even issues with their back.

Any health issues of this nature must be addressed immediately and consistently. But how?

Creating a Balanced Diet and Exercise Plan

The answer applies to all dogs, even the ones without weight issues. But the first step is a balanced diet and healthy nutrition. Each dog will have their own preferences for food, but it’s crucial to find out what they will eat and not to overindulge them.

As we all know, if you put a mountain of burgers in front of your dog, a point where they say, “I’ve had too many burgers” simply won’t arrive.

Also, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise. Regular, active walks are a start. Playtime with chew toys is some additional exercise.

If your dog is reluctant to do physical activity, it’s even more imperative to make exercise a part of their routine as their activity level will be low. Consistency will build structure, and your dog will begin to expect and enjoy the process.

Healthy Treat Alternatives

When it comes to food, plenty of slow-release, low-calorie dog foods will give your dog the sustenance he needs without the excess fattiness. You can also find alternatives to treats that will help you to wean your dog off of the high-calorie stuff so that they can enjoy the products with fewer calories.

Consulting the Vet

To accurately assess your dog’s body weight, one must consult the vet. They know their stuff and can give us practical advice on how to help our dogs lose weight and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

They can also create personalized weight management plans specific to your dog. General information is one thing, but logistics specific to your unique pooch are even better.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner and Monitor Your Dog’s Weight

Monitoring your dog’s weight is vital if you want to recognize weight gain in your dog and maintain control of its well-being. The structure is essential in this regard, as is regular exercise and a balanced and consistent diet.

You can administer treats occasionally, but remember not to overindulge your furry friend; they will simply guzzle everything put before them otherwise. Responsible pet ownership and proactive measures are the key to your dog’s well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much exercise does an overweight dog need?

An overweight dog may need more exercise than average. Two walks of about 30 minutes or more per day will be a good start. If you can encourage your dog to play in the garden on top of this, then you are doing well.

Can health issues cause weight gain in dogs?

Yes. Some illnesses, such as ascites, thyroid disease, and organ enlargement, can cause rapid weight gain. If your dog has gained weight overnight, this could be the cause.

Are certain dog breeds more prone to obesity?

Yes, some dogs are more at risk. Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds, and Cocker Spaniels, to name a few.

How quickly can a dog safely lose weight?

One to five pounds per month is a healthy and gradual weight loss level. But again, breed plays a role here, as does their health condition.

Can I use homemade dog food for weight management?

You can, but be careful. Some human foods, such as grains, can cause dog allergies. This strategy is safe if you ensure that what you cook is okay for dogs and check with your vet where necessary or uncertain.