The correct body weight of a dog has a huge impact on its life. Obesity in dogs is an increasingly common problem, the causes of which are mainly related to civilization factors. Proper care for the animal should also include preventive measures against excessive weight gain. Find out how to recognize obesity in your dog and why you should treat your pet when it suffers from this problem!
How to Recognize Obesity in Dogs?
Obesity in dogs, like in humans, is an excess of fat tissue accumulated in the body. However, the answer to the question of how to recognize obesity in dogs is not that simple. To determine overweight or obesity in humans, the BMI index is useful, which specifies how many kilograms are above the optimal, i.e., recommended body weight depending on height.
In the case of dogs, optimal body weight is not unequivocal, and each breed should be approached individually. Generally, it is accepted that overweight in dogs occurs when the animal’s weight increases by 15-30% over the desired weight. Whereas obesity in dogs is a condition when optimal body weight is exceeded by more than 30%. If you suspect that your dog is overweight or obese, it is best to consult a veterinarian who will accurately assess the animal’s health status.
What Are the Causes of Obesity in Dogs?
Obesity in dogs occurs due to an improper energy balance. This means that fat tissue accumulates in the dog’s body when it receives more calories than it can burn.
The most common causes of obesity include:
- Diet – improperly calculated energy needs can cause that even when feeding the animal healthy meals, obesity may develop. Remember that energy needs vary in dogs depending on many factors, such as age, sex, or coexisting diseases. Some dogs, depending on the breed, are more prone to gaining weight.
- Neutering and spaying – dogs after such procedures have reduced energy requirements, which is associated, among other things, with a slowed metabolism due to the lack of sex hormones.
- Overfeeding – too much food, an excess of treats.
- Insufficient physical activity – dogs need to let off steam, so even if they prefer lounging, they should be encouraged to go for walks.
- Changes in intestinal flora associated with unhealthy eating habits.
It is less common for obesity in dogs to be associated with diseases, e.g., hypothyroidism or pituitary issues, hyperadrenocorticism, or hypothalamic disorders. If you feel that you are taking proper care of your dog, yet it still weighs too much, you must consult with a veterinarian.
Why is Obesity in Dogs a Serious Problem?
One of the serious nutritional errors is filling the bowl without calculating portions and frequently giving the dog treats. Some caregivers believe that this way they will make their pet happy. However, this is not a good way to show affection to the animal.
Underestimating overweight and obesity carries serious consequences for the canine. An obese animal becomes inactive, is reluctant to play, which makes it unhappy. Breathing difficulties may occur, and as obesity develops, also problems with movement. Moreover, obesity in dogs contributes to diseases such as:
- diabetes;
- hypothyroidism;
- strain on the spine and joints, increasing the risk of injuries and degenerative changes;
- cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and atherosclerosis;
- urinary system disorders;
- thermoregulation problems;
- skin problems;
- weakened immunity.
A caregiver who cares for their pet’s long and happy life should strive to maintain its optimal body weight. Caring for a dog’s condition and well-being should not be limited to just filling the bowl. Besides selecting a complete diet, one should also ensure physical activity. It is worth providing the animal with an appropriate dose of playtime, encouraging it to walk and other forms of activity. However, to avoid harming the pet, changes should not be introduced too intensely. Do you not know how to lose weight for your dog – advice from Pedigree® will help you approach this problem sensibly. And if your dog suffers from obesity, consult with a veterinarian. An obese animal requires specialized treatment and the right diet.
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