Obesity and Overweight in Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered if your dog is at a healthy weight? Overweight and obesity are common problems that affect many dogs, but it's important to know how to identify the signs and take action before they cause serious problems. In this blog, we'll explain the causes and consequences of being overweight, how to recognize the signs of obesity in your dog, and most importantly, what you can do to help your dog lose weight safely and effectively. Join us and discover how to improve your furry friend's health and quality of life!

What is obesity in dogs?

Obesity in dogs is a condition in which a dog accumulates excess body fat, usually due to a combination of overfeeding, lack of exercise, and in some cases due to other health problems. This condition can severely affect their quality of life and increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart problems, and arthritis.

Causes

Obesity in dogs can have several causes, and it is important to identify them to help your pet stay healthy:

• Unbalanced diet : Excess foods rich in fat or carbohydrates, as well as inadequate portions, contribute to weight gain.

• Behavioral problems : Stress, such as boredom, can cause an increase in food intake.

• Lack of exercise : A sedentary lifestyle causes dogs not to burn the calories they consume, which causes fat accumulation.

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• Too many treats or snacks : Giving them too many treats or human food as "treats" can add extra calories without you realizing it.

• Genetic factors : Some breeds, such as Labradors or Beagles, are more prone to weight gain due to their genetics.

• Health problems : Hormonal imbalances such as hyperadrenocorticism, hypothyroidism, hyperinsulinemia among others, can slow down your metabolism, facilitating the accumulation of fat.

• Sterilization or castration : Although it does not always occur, some dogs tend to gain weight after these procedures due to their metabolic requirements that can decrease by up to 25%.

Difference between overweight and obesity

Overweight and obesity in dogs are conditions related to excess weight, but they differ in their severity. Overweight occurs when a dog is 10% to 20% overweight than would be ideal for its size and breed. In this case, although there may be a slight impact on its health, it is easier to reverse the situation with changes in diet and exercise.

Obesity, on the other hand, occurs when excess weight exceeds 20% of the ideal weight, which implies a more significant accumulation of fat and greater risks to the dog's health. Obesity is associated with serious diseases, such as heart problems, diabetes and arthritis, and requires a more rigorous approach to treatment, ideally under the supervision of a veterinarian.

How do I know if my dog ​​is obese? Signs and signals

Detecting obesity in your dog is essential to prevent health problems:

• Difficulty moving : If you notice your dog is having trouble climbing stairs, walking long distances, or seems slower than usual, it could be a sign that he is carrying excess weight.

• Lack of rib visibility : When looking at your dog from above, he should have a visible "waist" - a narrowing after the ribs. If you can't see this shape, he may be obese.

• Ribs of fat : If you can't feel your dog's ribs without applying pressure, this is a clear indication that he has excess body fat.

• Increased breathing or panting : Being overweight can cause your dog to breathe more heavily or pant more than usual, even when resting.

• Loss of energy or lethargy : Obese dogs tend to be more tired, since carrying extra weight requires more effort, making them less active.

If you notice several of these signs, it is best to consult a veterinarian for a complete evaluation and to establish an action plan to help your dog lose weight in a healthy way.

Consequences

Obesity in dogs can have several serious consequences for their health, including:

• Heart disease : Excess weight puts extra strain on the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems such as congestive heart failure.

• Type 2 Diabetes : Being overweight interferes with insulin regulation, which can lead to diabetes in dogs .

• Arthritis and joint problems : Excess weight puts stress on joints, which can cause pain and make movement difficult.

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• Hypertension : Obesity can raise blood pressure, putting vital organs such as the heart and kidneys at risk.

• Respiratory problems : Excess fat can compress the lungs and make breathing difficult, especially in brachycephalic breeds.

• Increased appearance of tumors : Most neoplasias develop more quickly when there is a greater amount of hormones produced from fatty tissue.

• Reduced life expectancy : Obese dogs are more likely to suffer from serious diseases, which can reduce their lifespan.

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Is obesity dangerous in a dog?

Yes, obesity in dogs is very dangerous, as it significantly increases the risk of developing serious diseases such as diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, arthritis, and respiratory problems. In addition, it can reduce life expectancy and affect your pet's quality of life, limiting its mobility and energy. Obesity can also worsen existing diseases, so it is essential to address it in time with an appropriate diet and exercise plan to protect your dog's health.

What should I feed my dog ​​to help him lose weight?

• Visit your veterinarian to calculate a specific diet for your pet, which, depending on the stage of life it is in, can cover its energy requirements without exceeding them and causing overweight.

• Choose foods specially designed for weight control, with fewer calories and more fiber.

• Offer meats such as skinless chicken, turkey or white fish that are low in fat and rich in essential nutrients.

• Carrots, squash and green beans are excellent low-calorie, high-fiber options that will help improve digestion and control hunger.

• Be sure to measure your dog's food portions to avoid excess calories.

• Keep your dog hydrated, as thirst is sometimes mistaken for hunger.

Remember that it is always best to consult with a veterinarian before making major changes to your dog's diet, to ensure that he is losing weight safely and healthily.

Conclusion

Obesity and overweight in dogs are serious conditions that can affect their long-term health and well-being, increasing the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart problems and arthritis. Keeping your pet at its ideal weight through a balanced diet, regular exercise and visits to the vet is key to ensuring a long and healthy life. With the right approach, you can help your dog reach and maintain a healthy weight, improving its quality of life and energy.