A dog that is overweight lives on average 2-2.5 years less than a dog with an ideal weight. The associated diseases are numerous: arthritis, diabetes, heart problems, fatty liver, more frequent tumors. Helping your dog lose weight is one of the most important things you can do for their health.
Understanding If Your Dog Is Really Overweight
It's not the scale that matters, it's the body condition score:
- Ribs cannot be seen and cannot be felt under your hands: overweight
- Absent waist when viewed from above: overweight
- Hanging belly instead of tucking in: overweight
- Difficulty climbing stairs or jumping into the car: severely overweight
Calculating Ideal Weight
Ask your veterinarian for a dedicated visit. Measure current weight and target weight (usually a reduction of 10-25%). All dietary calculations are based on target weight, not current weight.
The 4-Point Strategy
1. Reduce calories by 20-30%
Not more: rapid weight loss causes metabolic stress. Goal: 0.5-1% of body weight lost per week.
For a 30 kg dog that should weigh 25 kg: ideal loss 150-300 g/week.
2. Change the Type of Food
Specific "light" or "weight management" food — fewer calories per gram, more fiber, more protein, less fat. Premium brand if possible.
3. Eliminate ALL uncontrolled snacks
Treats, leftovers, "a bite" → huge hidden calories. If you want to reward, use small pieces of their daily food ration — do not add calories.
4. Gradually Increase Exercise
Not from 0 to 100. If they are obese, start with short walks (15 min) twice a day, increasing by 5 minutes each week. No intense running immediately (risk of joint issues). Swimming is excellent when possible.
Weigh Every 14 Days
Same scale, same time, cat/dog before meals. Record. Adjust diet after 1 month if weight is not decreasing.
When Results Don't Arrive
- Check for discipline: who is secretly giving them leftovers? Aunt, grandma, neighbor?
- Thyroid tests (hypothyroidism causes resistant overweight)
- Cushing's syndrome tests in senior dogs with a bloated belly
Conclusions
Helping your dog lose weight takes 4-12 months. Patience, consistency, no shortcuts. Once the ideal weight is reached, maintaining it requires less effort. The dog will be happier, move more, and live longer.
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