Many pet parents are aware that dogs who are overweight or obese are at greater risk of developing a medical condition that could reduce their life expectancy. But what often flies under the radar is how that weight gain can also affect their dog’s general lifestyle. The good news, however, is that you can do something about it; weight loss can improve your dog’s quality of life.
Overweight Dogs See Earlier Start of Chronic Disease and Decreased Lifespan
Some of the most compelling evidence that obesity negatively affects a dog’s life comes from a 14-year study of Labrador retrievers.1 In that study, dogs were paired within their litters by gender and body weight and randomly assigned to either a control group or a lean-fed group. Control-group dogs were allowed to eat an unlimited amount of food during 15-minute daily feedings, while lean-fed dogs were fed 75 percent of the amount eaten by their paired littermates. All dogs ate the same puppy and adult dog foods throughout their lives — only the quantities were different.
The dogs fed to maintain a lean body condition (body condition score, or BCS, of 4 to 5 on a 9-point scale) lived 15 percent, or 1.8 years, longer than the control-group dogs (BCS of 6 to 7). The leaner dogs weighed less, had less body fat, and experienced a two-year delay in the loss of lean body mass (such as muscle) as they aged.
Beyond living longer, the study found that arthritis and other chronic diseases developed about two years later in lean-fed dogs than in control-group dogs. The control group showed other physical effects as well. Researchers observed that the heavier dogs had more visible signs of aging, such as graying muzzles, impaired gaits and reduced activity, at an earlier age than the lean-fed dogs. What researchers learned from the study is that feeding less doesn’t necessarily change what health problems develop, but when those issues occur.
A Healthy Weight Improves a Dog’s Quality of Life
Many pet parents are reluctant to make the dietary changes needed in a weight-loss plan for their overweight or obese dog because they believe that depriving their furry friend of treats or food may decrease their pets’ quality of life. However, one study found just the opposite — overweight dogs had a poorer quality of life that improved with successful weight control.2
In that study, owners of obese dogs completed a questionnaire at the beginning and conclusion of a weight-loss program at a university clinic. Owners were asked about their dogs’ behavior and health-related quality of life, including factors such as pain, activity, sociability, aggression, anxiety, mobility, enthusiasm and happiness. As part of the weight-management program, all dogs were fed one of two commercially available diets.
The main conclusion reached by the veterinary researchers is that the health-related quality of life of obese dogs starts low but improves with successful weight loss. Pet owners whose dogs successfully lost weight reported emotional benefits as well as physical benefits: their canine companions had improved vitality and emotional well-being and decreased pain.
A few extra pounds on your furry friend may not seem like a cause for concern. But as these studies show, carrying excess weight is one of the risk factors for a number of serious health issues.
How Do I Tell If My Puppy Is Overweight?
It can be hard to know whether a puppy’s weight gain indicates a healthy dog or one that needs to check the extra calories. It requires looking at the puppies’ overall body condition as well as the target weight for their age and breed. Puppies have very specific nutrient requirements for their growing bodies, so it’s important not to restrict their calorie intake unless your veterinarian has instructed you to. If you’re concerned that your puppy may be a little more plump than they should be, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your vet.
How Do I Know My Dog Is Overweight?
The best way to determine whether your dog is overweight is to assess their body condition score. You can check your dog’s body condition score at home or with the help of your veterinarian. Observe your dog when they are standing and look at their body shape: Do they have a visible waist? Can you easily feel your dog’s ribs with your fingers, or is extra fat cushioning them from your touch?
Don’t solely rely on an overweight dog chart when deciding how much weight is too much, but also consider your dog’s overall health. Does your dog’s fitness level match the activities they’re involved in? They may be more in need of regular exercise than a weight-loss diet — the advice provided by your vet will help you decide if your dog’s current body weight is appropriate.
Talk with Your Veterinarian About Your Dog’s Weight Loss Plan
If you’re concerned about your canine companion’s weight, talk with your veterinarian. They can determine your dog’s ideal weight, rule out any underlying medical issues, and help you formulate a diet and exercise plan that will help your dog lose weight safely.
A diet such as Diamond CARE Weight Management Formula for Adult Dogs may help your dog lose weight and positively affect your dog’s health and quality of life. Keep in mind that the benefits of low-calorie food can be derailed by excessive treats! Whether you’re rewarding with table scraps or commercial treats, those count in a dog’s daily calories. You can still reward your dog’s progress, but with low-calorie treats such as green beans or a romp in the park.
References
1Kealy RD, Lawler DF, Ballam JM, Mantz SL, Biery DN, Greeley EH, Lust G, Segre M, Smith GK, Stowe HD. Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2002 May 1;220(9):1315–1320.
2German AJ, Holden SL, Wiseman-Orr ML, Reid J, Nolan AM, Biourge V, Morris PJ, Scott EM. 2012. Quality of life is reduced in obese dogs but improves after successful weight loss. Vet J. 192(3):428–434.
