Wellness Wednesday: Is Your Dog Overweight?

How you can tell, and what you can do about it

Pandemic restrictions have made it harder for some dogs (and people!) to get their usual exercise. And it’s starting to show.

"I have an overweight dog – help!" Just like humans, dogs can quite easily become overweight, which can lead to a whole host of health problems. For our four-legged friends, being overweight could worsen existing conditions or cause new ones. While we recommend preventing weight gain in the first place, we’ve put together this handy guide to help you if you’ve ever thought, “My dog is overweight.”

How do I know if my dog is overweight?

You might notice your dog napping more or excessively panting during exercise if they’ve gained weight. Your dog’s ideal weight will entirely depend on its breed and size. We recommend you ask your vet. It’s also a good idea to monitor your dog’s weight from the time they first become a part of the family.

How does their weight affect their health?

Excess weight can lead to a number of health complications for your dog, and the dangers are too important to ignore. Obesity affects the entire body and can greatly change your dog's quality of life. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, obesity in dogs could take up to two years off their lives.

However, some simple lifestyle changes and a weight loss program can help. Weight gain is easier to prevent than treat, but if you are already noticing a few extra pounds on your pooch, then it's time to make changes.

How can I help my dog lose weight?

Similar to a human diet, you need to make changes to your pet’s overall lifestyle rather than doing quick fad diets. Try introducing adjustments that help them reach a healthier weight that can be maintained. Before implementing any changes to your dog’s diet or exercise, please talk to your vet in order to create the best and safest plan for your pooch.

Get moving. Exercise is important to all dogs’ physical and mental health, and lack of it could be contributing to their weight gain. Longer walks and more playtime will not only improve the health of your pet, but also will increase their mood (mental health) and boost your bond. 

Watch food portions. If your dog is overweight, they are probably eating more than they need, either at mealtimes or from too many treats or grazing throughout the day. Portion control is one way to help focus on what your pooch is eating. Establishing regular mealtimes will also help your dog's eating habits. Again, before you make any changes to your dog’s diet, consult your vet.

Stay strong together. We know it is difficult to say no to our adorable four-legged friends sometimes, especially when treats make them so happy! But as a household, you need to remain strong together and remember that in the long run, you are harming your dog if you do not help them lose weight or keep them at a healthy weight. Your dog will not love you any less if you feed them fewer treats or scraps from the table, so try not to feel guilty. Why not replace those moments with fun play or exercise?

Reach out. Work with your vet to find the best workout plan for your pooch. They can help you do regular weigh-ins, keep you motivated and help you understand how food, exercise and supplements can help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Your vet will also be able to support you if you are having difficulty with a weight loss plan, because just like humans, every dog loses weight differently.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle. An overweight dog is neither healthy nor happy. Wherever you are in managing your dog’s weight — about to start a weight loss plan, in the midst of trying, or just aiming to be preventive — we at YuMOVE are here to help. When you make better choices for your four-legged friend through nutritional food, regular exercise and the right joint supplements, they will be able to lead a long and happy life.

About YuMOVE

YuMOVE is the United Kingdom’s #1 Veterinary Joint Supplement* that helps ease aches and discomfort associated with training and competition. It is proven to sooth stiffness, support long-term joint health and help mobility. (*Kynetec VetTrack May 2020. Sales of YuMOVE branded products through veterinary wholesalers.)