How can I identify an overweight dog?

Overweight is one of the most common health problems in dogs – estimates suggest that up to 40–60 percent of Western dogs are overweight or obese. According to research, being overweight can shorten a dog's lifespan by an average of almost two years. Excess weight puts pressure on the joints and musculoskeletal system, strains the heart and respiratory system, impairs insulin sensitivity, and increases the risk of pancreatitis. Overweight is also associated with osteoarthritis, urinary tract problems, skin infections in skin folds, and an increased risk of anesthesia during surgery. Fortunately, managing a dog's weight is possible with small, consistent changes in daily life.

In a dog at its ideal weight, the ribs can be felt with light pressure without pressing hard, and a waistline is visible when viewed from above. In profile, the belly should rise after the ribs. If the ribs cannot be felt at all or the dog's body is evenly rounded without a clear waistline, it is time to take action. This is especially true for long-haired breeds such as the Samoyed or Chow Chow, where visual assessment alone can be unreliable – feeling the dog by hand is always a more reliable method.

A veterinarian can assess a dog's body condition score (BCS) on a scale of 1–9, with 4–5 being the ideal score. This is a reliable way to determine whether a dog is overweight. The WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) also provides visual guides that allow owners to make a preliminary assessment at home.

The Three Pillars of Managing a Dog's Weight

1. The Right Food Amount and Portion Control

Weigh your dog's food portions using a kitchen scale. Visual estimation often leads to portions increasing unnoticed. Treats are always counted as part of the dog's total daily energy intake: if treats are given in large quantities, the amount of regular food must be reduced accordingly. Treats should account for no more than 10 percent of the dog's daily energy intake.

Alongside regular food, you may consider a light or veterinary weight management diet that is higher in fiber and lower in energy density. This helps the dog feel full with a smaller portion. In our online store, you will find weight management diets recommended by veterinarians , such as the PURINA Pro Plan Veterinary Diets OM Obesity Management diet.

2. Regular Exercise

Daily exercise is the second pillar of managing a dog's weight. Walks, swimming, throwing a ball, and playtime keep the dog active and burn off excess calories. Start gradually if your dog is significantly overweight, as excessive strain can damage the joints. Increase exercise gradually and monitor how well your dog copes.

The exercise program for a significantly overweight, elderly, or previously inactive dog should be planned together with a veterinarian , especially if the dog already shows signs of joint or heart problems.

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for overweight dogs because it does not strain the joints in the same way as running. However, not all dogs naturally know how or like to swim, so swimming should always be done under supervision in a safe environment. Daily mental stimulation can also be increased with enrichment toys and puzzle toys , which extend mealtime and mentally stimulate the dog.

3. Managing Treats and Making the Right Choices

Treats are important for training and daily enjoyment, but their energy content is easily forgotten. Choose low-calorie dog treats and keep track of the treats given during the day. Many vegetables, such as carrots and cucumbers, are suitable as healthy snacks for dogs.

Warning:However, not all vegetables are suitable for dogs. Avoid grapes and raisins (risk of acute kidney failure), onions and garlic (hemolytic anemia), avocado, and raw dough. If you are unsure about the suitability of any food item, check with a veterinarian.

Weight Loss Plan with a Veterinarian

If your dog is significantly overweight, it is advisable to create a weight loss plan together with a veterinarian . The goal is a moderate, steady weight loss: approximately 1–2 percent of body weight per week. Radical diets can be harmful, so patience pays off. Regular weigh-ins help monitor progress and provide motivation to continue.

Certain dog breeds are particularly prone to becoming overweight. Labrador Retrievers, Dachshunds, Beagles, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels gain weight easily, so their owners should pay special attention to diet and exercise. A veterinarian can also check whether there is an underlying metabolic disease, such as hypothyroidism, that is affecting the dog's weight.

A common secondary problem of being overweight is strain on the joints. To support weight loss, you can use joint health supplements (such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids), or a veterinarian-recommended special diet, such as PURINA Pro Plan Veterinary Diets JM Joint Mobility food.

Summary

• Identifying ideal weight: the ribs can be felt with light pressure, a waistline is visible when viewed from above, and the belly rises after the ribs.
• Use the BCS scale (1–9, ideal 4–5) and have a veterinarian make an official assessment.
• Weigh food portions and keep treats under 10 percent of daily energy intake.
• Exercise gradually and carefully; swimming is a gentle option. Consult a veterinarian before starting a program if the dog is significantly overweight.
• Avoid toxic plants for dogs: grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and avocado.
• Aim for 1–2 percent weight loss per week under veterinary guidance.

In our online store, you will find a veterinarian-selected range of weight management diets,low-calorie treats,joint health supplements and enrichment toys  to support weight management. Our customer service team will be happy to help you choose the right option.