Obesity in dogs is increasing, and it poses a significant health risk to our furry friends. In this blog post, our Gilbert vets will explain how to tell if your dog is overweight and what you can do about it.
Is my dog overweight?
Excess weight can lead to serious health issues and discomfort for dogs, so it's crucial to help them maintain a healthy weight throughout their life. If you suspect your dog may be overweight, scheduling a vet visit is important. The vet will weigh your dog, conduct a thorough examination to assess its overall health.
Here are some signs that can help determine if your dog is carrying some extra weight.
Consider Your Dog's Fitness Level
- Overweight dogs often pant even when walking relatively slowly. They may also walk slower or need to take more naps than before.
Feel For Your Pup's Ribs
- If your dog is at a healthy weight, you should be able to feel their ribs without a thick layer of fat. Your dog's chest should wider than their abdomen, and there will be a noticeable tuck-up from chest to stomach about where their waist should be (see illustration below).
Assess Your Dog' Figure
- When viewed from the side, overweight dogs generally have no visible waistline and no distinction between the chest and stomach. See the overweight dog chart below to better understand how your dog should look from the side.
How can I help my dog lose weight?
Weight gain can be a symptom of a severe underlying illness, so if you think your dog is overweight, a trip to the vet is called for. If your vet determines that your pup is overweight and no underlying illnesses are causing the weight gain, they will recommend a diet and exercise plan to help get your dog's weight back on track.
Here are a few things your vet may recommend to help your four-legged friend shed those extra pounds.
Regular Exercise
- Keep your dog on a regular exercise schedule, including walking and playing outside. Playing fetch or frisbee can help you and your dog form a closer bond and give your pup a fun way to burn a few extra calories.
Diet & Feeding
- Your vet can calculate the correct number of calories to feed your dog at each meal and prescribe a low-calorie diet to help your pup reach a healthier weight. Be sure your dog eats at the same time every day and that you measure out the portions carefully based on the ideal weight for their breed (or size).
Yearly (or Twice-Yearly) Checkups
- Even when you're sure your dog is healthy, routine wellness exams are important. Annual or twice-yearly wellness exams allow your vet to monitor your pet's weight and spot the early signs of illness to treat conditions before they become more serious.
If your dog begins following a weight loss plan, visit your vet for follow-up appointments to monitor your pet's progress and make dietary adjustments if necessary.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.