As a pet parent, you want nothing but the best for your furry companion. You shower them with love, treats, and delicious meals. But what if your way of showing love is actually harming them? Obesity in dogs is a growing crisis, yet many pet parents don’t realize their dog is overweight until serious health problems arise.
A staggering 70% of dogs I see at dog parks, pet cafés, and during walks are overweight or obese. Even more concerning is that many owners refuse to acknowledge it. If you’re not sure whether your dog is overweight, or if you want to help them stay fit and healthy, this guide is for you.
How Serious is Obesity in Dogs?
Obesity in dogs isn’t just about appearance—it’s a major health risk. Being overweight puts immense strain on their body and can lead to severe health problems, including:
✔️ Joint issues and arthritis – Extra weight means more pressure on joints, leading to pain and difficulty moving.
✔️ Heart disease – Excess fat can put stress on the cardiovascular system.
✔️ Diabetes – Overweight dogs are at higher risk of developing insulin resistance.
✔️ Breathing difficulties – Obese dogs often struggle to breathe properly, especially flat-faced breeds.
✔️ Shortened lifespan – Studies show that overweight dogs live up to 2.5 years less than dogs with a healthy weight.
✔️ Low energy and lethargy – An overweight dog is less likely to run, play, or enjoy life to the fullest.
Despite these risks, many pet parents still believe a chubby dog is a happy dog. The truth? A lean, active dog is a happy and healthy dog
Who is Responsible for Dog Obesity?
It’s us, the pet parents. Dogs don’t buy their own food or serve themselves extra meals—we do. Overfeeding, excessive treats, and lack of exercise are the leading causes of obesity in dogs.
Here’s how we unintentionally contribute to their weight gain:
❌ Too many treats – Treats should only make up 10% or less of your dog’s daily calories.
❌ Feeding table scraps – Human food is often high in fat, salt, and sugar, all of which are harmful to dogs.
❌ Overfeeding meals – Many pet parents overestimate how much food their dog actually needs.
❌ Lack of exercise – Many dogs simply don’t get enough daily activity to burn off the calories they consume.
❌ Feeding the wrong diet – Many commercial pet foods are packed with carbohydrates and fillers, leading to weight gain.
The worst part? Many pet parents don’t even realize their dog is overweight.
How to Tell if Your Dog is Overweight
If you’re unsure whether your dog is overweight, try these simple tests:
🧐 Rib Test – Run your hands along your dog’s sides. Can you feel their ribs without pressing too hard? If not, they may have too much fat.
🔄 Waist Check – Look at your dog from above. Do they have a visible waistline? If not, they might be overweight.
📏 Side View – When looking from the side, does their stomach tuck up after the ribcage, or does it hang down? A sagging belly is a sign of excess weight.
Still unsure? Your vet or canine nutritionist can help assess your dog’s body condition and provide guidance on their ideal weight.
How to Help Your Dog Lose Weight
If your dog is overweight, don’t worry—it’s never too late to fix it! Here’s how to safely get them back in shape:
1. Switch to a Natural, Species-Appropriate Diet
One of the biggest culprits behind obesity in dogs is their diet. Most commercial kibble is loaded with carbohydrates, fillers, and synthetic additives—all things dogs don’t need.
Dogs share 98.8% of their DNA with wolves, and while they have adapted to eat some plant matter, they are still facultative carnivores. This means they thrive on a meat-based diet, not on grains, processed foods, or plant-based diets.
✅ A raw or fresh diet provides high-quality protein, healthy fats, and the necessary nutrients without unnecessary carbs.
✅ Feeding fresh food helps regulate their weight naturally by keeping them full and satisfied.
✅ Unlike kibble, which often leads to overeating, fresh food provides proper satiety and maintains lean muscle mass.
2. Control Portion Sizes
It’s easy to overfeed dogs, especially when they give us those irresistible puppy eyes! But portion control is crucial.
✔️ Measure meals accurately instead of guessing.
✔️ Use a feeding guide based on their weight, activity level, and age.
✔️ Avoid free-feeding (leaving food out all day). Stick to scheduled meals.
✔️ Switch to One Meal a Day (OMAD) plan or reduce the feeding window (Intermittent Fasting).
3. Reduce Treats & Cut Out Junk
❌ Stop giving high-calorie commercial treats full of sugar and preservatives.
✅ Replace them with healthy alternatives like dehydrated/baked organs, dehydrated/raw meat, or small pieces of chicken.
✅ Remember: Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
4. Increase Exercise & Activity
Just like in humans, calories in vs. calories out determines weight gain or loss. If your dog eats more than they burn, they’ll gain weight.
✔️ Go for longer walks and engage in active playtime.
✔️ Introduce games like fetch, tug-of-war, or swimming.
✔️ If your dog is older or has joint issues, opt for low-impact exercises like slow walks or hydrotherapy.
5. Monitor Progress & Stay Consistent
Weight loss takes time. Keep track of your dog’s progress by:
📏 Weighing them once a month.
📸 Taking before-and-after photos.
✍️ Keeping a food and activity journal.
Be patient! Healthy weight loss should be gradual (no more than 1-2% of body weight per week).
Can a Raw Diet Help with Obesity?
YES! A species-appropriate raw diet can be the key to preventing and reversing obesity in dogs. Here’s why:
✔️ High in protein – Keeps muscles strong and metabolism active.
✔️ Low in carbohydrates – Prevents sugar spikes and fat storage.
✔️ Nutrient-dense – Provides real nutrition without fillers or empty calories.
✔️ Promotes satiety – Dogs on raw diets are less hungry than kibble-fed dogs.
✔️ Supports joint health – Natural anti-inflammatory benefits help overweight dogs move more comfortably.
The worst part about having a dog is that they don’t live long enough. A natural diet can add years to their life and is the closest thing to life insurance we can give them.
Final Thoughts
Dog obesity is preventable—and you have the power to change it.
❌ Stop feeding processed, carb-heavy foods.
❌ Avoid overfeeding & excessive treats.
✅ Feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet.
✅ Get your dog moving every day.
Remember: Your dog depends on you to make the right choices. By taking action today, you’re ensuring they live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
🔹 Want help with your dog’s diet? Consult a canine nutritionist to design a customized feeding plan that suits your dog’s needs!
A fit dog is a happy dog—let’s keep them that way! 🐕💪
