Are you wondering if your dog is obese? How to recognize it? What are the risks of obesity in dogs or cats? But above all, how to avoid it? Here are all my tips for keeping your dog healthy while preserving your wallet (we're not going to lie) 😉

Obesity in dogs is an increasingly common problem, just as it is in humans. As humans gain weight, dogs tend to gain weight, and it makes perfect sense. After all, isn't it said that "like master, like dog"? An overweight dog is a dog that can suffer from numerous health problems. Diabetes, arthritis, heart disease … the list is long! And in addition to endangering your furry friend's health, it can also put a heavy strain on your wallet, as veterinary costs associated with obesity-related illnesses in dogs (or cats) are expensive!

At EmmeneTonChien.com, we know it well: a healthy dog ​​is a travel companion in top form, ready to explore the world with you. That's why for years I've been sharing tons of tips and tricks to keep your furry friend in perfect health. Musher celebrated her 10th birthday last summer, and she's a fit senior dog. So far, so good. Being a true Labrador, she's quite the gourmand, so I'm very careful about what she eats. Every time I go to the vet, she's weighed, and I always get the same old reminder about Labradors' reputation for being gluttonous and often ending up overweight and with all sorts of health problems…

So, how can you prevent obesity in dogs so you can enjoy wonderful adventures together and keep your dog healthy for as long as possible? How can you tell if your dog is overweight? What are the signs to look for to know if your dog is obese? What are the health risks? What should you do if your dog is overweight? I'll explain everything in this new article.

Summary

How do I know if my dog ​​is overweight?

I tend to think that if you are asking yourself this question, this is often the first sign! And that it is definitely time to check with your vet if your dog is slightly overweight or suffering from obesity.

For 4 years, I have been watching Musher's weight. I started to wonder about my little darling being overweight when I saw some friends again, who I hadn't seen for a few months, and they asked me if Musher hadn't put on a bit of weight... I admit I was upset for her, but once I got past that, I asked myself questions and took advantage of a vet appointment to take stock very concretely.

💡 Did you know?

Veterinary costs related to illnesses caused by excess weight can quickly add up. Pet insurance can then prove very useful in covering unexpected expenses.

👉 Compare the pet insurance plans offered by Solly Azar to protect your wallet while ensuring the health of your companion.

Important: Each breed (and each breed mix) has its own morphology. It is therefore important to know the ideal weight of your dog. To do this, do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian. During auscultation, he will “feel” your animal to check if he can feel his ribs or if they are hidden under a thick layer of fat.

Here are other signs that should alert you: 

  • its size is no longer marked, it looks like a “barrel”
  • your dog is out of breath after moderate exertion
  • he has difficulty jumping or getting up
  • he shuns his walks even though he used to love going out

If you notice these signs, consult your veterinarian for a complete health check. He will make the diagnosis and give you plenty of advice.

Obesity or overweight in dogs or cats can have several causes: 

  • a diet unsuitable for their needs : too high in calories or in excessive quantity… It is not always easy not to give up a small piece of cheese when your dog is making his beaten cocker spaniel eyes… And yet this harmless gesture can lead to serious health problems. 
  • lack of exercise: There's no secret! Here too, humans and dogs are in the same boat. To age in good shape, you have to do sport! A sedentary dog ​​that spends its time between the sofa and its basket burns fewer calories and therefore gains weight more easily. A few years ago when Musher followed me on trail runs and/or we did canicross, she had an ideal weight. But with the arrival of my little girl, our sporting activity decreased and I saw her getting a little fat (just like me, let's be honest!)... During a vet check-up, the latter called me to order and asked me to make sure she lost 2-3 kilos...
  • poor quality sleep: This is a point that is very often overlooked, yet if your dog sleeps well, he is much more likely to maintain his ideal weight. I know, I just told you that physical exercise is super important: what counts is a good balance! Sleep regulates appetite, satiety and weight gain. To have a restful and healthy sleep, your dog needs a good night, but also several naps during the day. And we never disturb him when he is sleeping, Woof Run!
  • hormonal or other health problems: Being overweight or obese is not always the result of poor diet, lack of exercise or sleep, it can be due to health problems. If nothing has changed in your dog's environment and habits but he is gaining weight: consult your veterinarian quickly. This is a strong signal that should put you on alert.
obese cat to be taken care of by a veterinarian and health insurance

The Consequences of Obesity on Your Dog's Health

An obese dog is a dog in danger. I often see videos of overweight dogs or cats dragging themselves around like seals circulating on social media. Apparently, these animals are considered funny. Personally, it breaks my heart: it's truly animal abuse . How can anyone leave their pet in that state? These animals are suffering… and they don't have the ability to take care of themselves. They can't decide to go on a diet. It's up to us to look after them.

Among the risks associated with being overweight in dogs or cats are:

  • Diabetes : requiring lifelong treatment with regular consultations.
  • osteoarthritis : painful and limiting movement. The animal puts too much weight on its joints, which deteriorate more quickly.
  • Heart disease : reducing life expectancy.
  • Respiratory problems : especially in brachycephalic breeds (like the French Bulldog).
  • A decrease in life expectancy : an overweight dog lives on average 2 years less than a healthy dog.

💡 Did you know?

Veterinary costs associated with these conditions can quickly escalate. A specialist consultation can cost several hundred euros, and treatments for diabetes or arthritis can also reach several hundred euros per year. Obesity can lead to chronic illnesses requiring regular veterinary monitoring. Will you be able to cover these costs to ensure your pet receives the necessary care for good health? Taking out pet insurance allows you to :

  • Reduce costs associated with specialist consultations.
  • Covering expensive medical treatments.
  • Anticipate unexpected expenses in case of complications.

👉 Solly Azar offers pet insurance plans that cover, among other things, these overweight-related conditions, thus protecting your wallet while ensuring your pet's health.

How to prevent obesity in your dog?

To avoid being overweight, good practices are simple: a balanced diet adapted to your nutritional needs, regular physical activity and quality sleep! 

Be careful, just like with humans, putting a dog (or a cat) on a diet is harsh. They find themselves deprived of food without understanding why… Reducing their daily ration must be done gradually . They shouldn't starve. For example, since Musher needed to lose a little weight, I replaced her treats with slices of raw carrot (zucchini works very well too)… Being the foodie she is, she immediately took to the carrots. And as for her food, I reduced her kibble portion a little but compensated by adding green beans to her bowl. More fiber = a real feeling of satiety! Musher quickly regained her ideal weight and is doing very well. I'm keeping a close eye on her.

If your dog has a few pounds to lose, take advantage of your weekends and holidays to try new activities together. An active dog is a healthy dog. Here are a few ideas for activities to enjoy daily, at a club, or on vacation: canicross , paddleboarding with your dog , agility training at a dog club … Preventing obesity in your dog means giving them a longer, healthier life… and above all, active and unforgettable holidays by your side! By paying attention to their diet, providing regular exercise, and anticipating veterinary costs with appropriate insurance, you can fully enjoy your adventures together.