The Skinny on Canine Obesity

Obesity in our family dogs is one of the most frequent health issues dealt with on a regular basis, by our veterinarians. In fact, it is at the top of the list of health problems in canines today. Knowing how to recognize obesity, its causes and how to reverse and prevent the complications make us better equipped to deal with our dogs’ well-being and general good health. Approximately 25 to 40% of the dogs seen by veterinarians are suffering from a weight related condition, not the least of which obesity is in prevalence.

Greater than one fourth of our canine companions struggle with mobility problems manifesting in arthritis and disc disease. Other health concerns include breathing complications, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, skin problems, and urinary tract diseases. Weight loss, diet and exercise and controlling the caloric intake of your companion dog are part of maintaining overall health and happiness.

Dogs carrying excessive amounts of weight are placing a greater burden on every internal organ and body system. Disease and even death may result if your dog is overweight. There are not strict tables of weight and height measurements that govern the determination of obesity in dogs because of variation in breed, body type, and diversity of build.

Generally, canines having an abundance of fat that is 20% or greater, over their ideal body weight, are defined as obese. Most animal practitioners do use a nine point scale that determines whether a dog is considered overweight, heavy, obese, or grossly obese. However, there continues to be some variation in their decisions based on individual cases.

The heavier a dog is outside of its ideal weight, the more physical impairment he is likely to incur. An obvious lack of physical stamina, decreased lung and liver function and possibly the inability to tolerate even the slightest temperature fluctuations results from the insulating properties by which fat is characterized. Animals with obesity problems may likely experience a higher risk related to surgical and anesthesia related procedures. This results from the fact that more anesthetic is required and at a higher dose than for a normal weight dog. And, since commonly administered anesthetics are absorbed by fat in the animal’s body, pudgy pets take longer to recover.

If your dog has weight problems, another complication may show itself in a number of metabolic disorders including, but not limited to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Addison’s disease and Cushing’s disease. Each of these diseases impairs energy metabolism, fat deposits, and muscular integrity among other related problems.

Simply put, if your dog does not expend more calories than it consumes weight gain is inevitable. Aside from medical and organic reasons, dogs become overweight for any number of reasons: eating human table scraps or fat laden sweets, overfeeding, overindulgence in high calorie treats, poor quality dog food, free feeding, and competitive eating in multiple dog households, limited exercise, or even constant access to food.

Yes, your dog’s weighty problem is able to be remediated. However, it is not uncommon for the process to take as long as eight to twelve months before any weight loss is obvious. You will be able to assist your furry friend better if everyone in the household is an active participant. Allow one family member to be in charge of feeding the dog regularly and measure specific amounts of the food into the dish. Don’t let the food stay down if the dog is not interested in eating. This small step will instill in the canine that food is not freely available and that he must eat at regular times. Your animal practitioner is likely able to provide you with an accurate measurement of the total caloric intake your dog is allowed on a daily basis. This also includes treats, supplements, snacks, and all else that the dog eats.

Think about how will manage all of the calories during the day for your dog, remembering that with the addition of physical activity over time, the amount of treats does not necessarily increase based upon other factors! You may want to offer fresh or canned veggies to the food for added bulk and fiber in the diet offer additional water, low calorie snacks rather than table treats and give your dog belly rubs, play time, and massages instead of food.

Your Dog and His Diet
Healthy, natural diets and suggestions for your dog.