Dog obese6/22/2023 ![]() ![]() If your dog is overweight or inching towards obesity, it’s time to take action. Of course, the only foolproof way to determine obesity in your dog is to have them evaluated by their veterinarian, so if you think your dog is overweight, you should schedule a visit with your vet to learn if obesity or any other health conditions are a concern. According to the Body Condition Score chart for dogs, an ideal body shape is similar to the dog at 5 of 9 on the scale, with no bulging at the belly and a tucked in waist.Įven though we often see overweight pugs, bulldogs, and other breeds as adorably chubby, getting your dog’s weight managed is essential, as obese dogs are more likely to develop “cancer, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension, osteoarthritis and a faster degeneration of affected joints,” according to VCA hospitals. You can compare your dog’s body to the Dog Body Condition Scale Chart on the APOP website. an unhealthy dog body shape, you can reference a body condition score chart, which uses a scale of either 1 to 5 or 1 to 9 to give pet owners an idea of where their pet’s weight falls, from emaciated to obese. You should also be able to feel their ribs easily through their fur, and their bellies should not sag or bulge when observed from the side.įor a visual idea of a healthy vs. According to the AKC, you can observe your dog’s shape from above, and if their bodies have a “rotund or oval shape,” instead of “a defined waist toward the rear and a straight build down the sides” they’re likely carrying extra weight that could lead to serious health problems down the road. If you’re wondering “is my dog fat?” there are simple methods to determine if they could stand to lose a few pounds. Identifying if your dog is overweight or obese Without a healthy diet and proper exercise, any dog can develop weight problems, but it’s never too late to learn how to help your dog lose weight. A chubby pug or bulldog is a common sight, but surprisingly, Labrador Retrievers are one of the breeds most likely to be overweight, due to their almost insatiable appetite. While the VCA statistics suggest that cats are more likely to be overweight than dogs, certain canine breeds can be prone to obesity as well. ![]() By determining if your dog or cat is overweight or obese, developing a plan of action to help them lose weight, then creating an environment that ensures they maintain their healthy weight, you’re setting them off on a path to a longer and healthier life.īecause dogs and cats do not operate the same way, we’ll tackle identifying and solving dog and cat obesity separately. If you’re wondering “is my dog overweight?” or “is my cat obese?” you’re off to a good start - identifying the problem is the first step. Obese cats and dogs are at a higher risk for a myriad of diseases, and a shortened lifespan. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, 25–30% of dogs and 30-35% of cats are obese, with an even higher percentage of older pets struggling with obesity. Obesity is a serious problem in both cats and dogs. Just as weight is an undeniable factor in human health, maintaining a healthy weight for your dog or cat is crucial to keeping them around as long as possible. October is National Pet Wellness Month, a time to focus on pet health and its importance all year long. ![]()
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