Dangers of Dog Obesity

Obesity is the most common preventable disease in dogs, affecting between 25 – 30 percent of the dog population, with 40 to 45% of dogs from age 5 to 11 having higher than normal body weight.

What causes obesity in dogs?

Obesity in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, but the most common are genetics and diet. Genetics play a large role in whether or not a dog will become obese, but there is also a lot that owners can do to help their dog avoid becoming obese. One of the most important things that owners can do is provide their dog with a healthy diet. 

Dogs that are fed a healthy diet will tend to have less weight, and they will also be less likely to become obese. Additionally, it is important for owners to get their dogs exercise. Dogs that are exercised will have less weight, and they will also be less likely to become obese.

Helping Your Dog Maintain A Healthy Body Weight

People typically consider dogs to be obese when they weigh 20% more than their ideal body weight. Obesity increases the risk for a number of health issues, such as damage to internal organs like the pancreas and heart.

Overfeeding is regarded as the most common cause of obesity in dogs no matter what age or breed you are considering.

Prevent Dog Obesity with these Tips

Some breeds are more prone to obesity than others, and some owners may not be aware of how much food their dog needs or how often they should feed them. However, there are also some things you can do to prevent your dog from becoming obese

• Ensure your dog gets its daily walks and other physical exercise requirements as necessary.

• Control your food portions by consulting with your vet to determine if you’re feeding yourself the right diet, or if you need to cut down on portions.

• Track your dog’s body mass index with revised and easy-to-use wellness charts. 

Risks from Dog Obesity

One of the most alarming trends is that obesity rates are increasing significantly among pets as well. In fact, one study found that about one-third of dogs are now obese, which can lead to a number of health problems. Here are five of the major risks associated with dog obesity:

1. Obese dogs are more prone to developing health problems such as joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.
2. They may require more medical attention than smaller dogs, as their weight can put them at risk for injuries.
3. They may be less active, which can lead to boredom and obesity-related learning problems.
4. They may have difficulty getting along with other animals or people, as they may become territorial or aggressive due to their size.
5. Their lifespan might be shortened due to health problems related to obesity

As humans need to stay fit and healthy, so does our pets. Make sure that you stay watch of their health and include them in your workouts as well.

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