Overweight dogs – causes, solutions

Overweight pets are a very common problem these days. In this article, we look at the main reasons for overweight dogs, as well as solutions.

Inappropriate portion size

One of the most common causes of overweight is overfeeding a dog. In order for the dog to maintain a healthy shape, it is important for the owner to control the amount of food his dog eats. Dog food packages usually already indicate the recommended amount of food per day, depending on the size of the dog. However, it should be noted that the desired portion size may vary depending on the dog's activity level, age, and also on the current shape of the dog. A veterinarian can help determine the current shape of the dog (is it overweight/not overweight).

Snacks and food from the people's table

Don't forget that the calories your dog consumes should also include treats and food that your dog may occasionally get from a human table! Various treats will especially quickly "benefit" smaller dogs. This does not mean that you should not treat your dog with treats, but make sure that they do not exceed approximately 10% of the daily calories consumed, and also choose healthy treats for your dog without sugar, sweeteners and other additives that are unhealthy for the dog. Do not give your dog cheese, sausages and other fatty, salty and spicy products from a human table. If you attend a dog school or training where you need to reward your dog with food, you can use basic food as a reward or, if you use treats, proportionally reduce the size of the basic meals.

Unsuitable food

A diet that is not suitable for your dog, such as one that is too fatty or too high in carbohydrates, can also lead to weight gain. Make sure your dog's diet contains enough protein, as this is important for both their health and to keep them feeling full longer. Dogs that are already overweight may need to adjust their diet to a lower-fat diet.

Sedentary lifestyle

To maintain good physical shape, a dog needs exercise. If the dog's health allows it, take your dog on long, leisurely walks. If your dog has previously lived a sedentary lifestyle for a long time, introduce him to exercise gradually. Increasing the load too quickly can be harmful to his health.

Health problems

Weight gain can also be caused by various health problems. If you notice that your dog has suddenly started to gain weight, even though there have been no significant changes in diet and lifestyle, be sure to consult a veterinarian!

Dog's age

Dogs, like humans, tend to have slower metabolisms as they age. This means that senior dogs, especially those who have become less active as they age, may need to eat fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Adjusting your senior dog's diet to his age-appropriate needs can help keep him in shape.

The article was written with the advice of veterinarian Anna Dace Blumberga.