As millions across the nation pledge to reduce their waistline in 2025, we are all being encouraged to be just as mindful of our pets’ guts.
A recent study that found half (46%) of UK dogs are either overweight or obese – meaning nearly one in two are at risk of serious health conditions.
Emily Boardman from Burns Pet Nutrition has shared a guide for dog owners to help them assess whether their pet needs more walkies and fewer treats this year.
Emily said: “Obesity in dogs can cause serious health problems, including joint strain, diabetes, and heart disease.
“Owners often unintentionally overfeed their dogs, but with a few adjustments, they can help their pets stay in top shape.”
“Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight isn’t just about diet – it’s about overall health and happiness.
“By making simple changes to their feeding routine and lifestyle, owners can add years to their dog’s life.”
Health risks for your dog
- Joint Issues: Excess weight puts strain on joints, exacerbating conditions like arthritis.
- Heart Disease: Overweight dogs may develop cardiovascular issues similar to those seen in humans.
- Diabetes: Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, which can significantly affect a dog’s quality of life and require lifelong management.
Emily also shared a dog body condition chart to show the visible signs of whether your dog is underweight, ideal weight, overweight or obese.
How to protect your dog from obesity
Check the Recommended Feeding Amounts
Feeding guidelines on dog food packaging provide a good starting point. If your dog is overweight, base their portions on their target weight rather than their current weight to encourage gradual weight loss.
Weigh or Measure Their Food
For the most accurate feeding, use a kitchen scale to weigh your dog’s food. Alternatively, a marked measuring cup can be a convenient option. Regularly check the portion size to ensure consistency.
Reduce Food Gradually
If you’ve been overfeeding your dog, don’t make drastic changes. Gradually reduce their portions by 5g every few days to avoid your dog noticing a significant difference and becoming distressed.
Add Low-Calorie Vegetables
Vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli make excellent low-calorie treats or meal additions. They can help bulk up your dog’s meal if they seem hungry, without adding unnecessary calories.
Account for Treats
Adjust your dog’s daily food allowance to include any treats they receive. Be mindful that some treats, such as dental chews, can be high in calories. Vegetables, however, can be given in addition to their regular food.
Use Kibbles for Treats
Replace calorie-dense treats with kibbles taken from your dog’s daily food portion. This helps prevent overfeeding while still allowing for training rewards or snacks.
Encourage Activity During Feeding
If your dog is less active, scatter feeding or using a feeding ball can encourage them to move more during mealtimes. This can help burn calories and make mealtime more engaging.
Understand Your Dog’s Hunger Instincts
Some dogs may always seem hungry due to their natural foraging instincts. However, if your dog is maintaining their weight, they’re likely getting enough food. Weight loss is the clearest sign of underfeeding.
Use a Smaller Feeding Bowl
A smaller feeding bowl can make smaller portions appear larger, helping both owners and pets adjust to reduced food amounts without feeling deprived
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