Obesity has become a widespread problem in our pets today. I would say very few of our patients are of
ideal weight. I realize how pathetic those puppy dog eyes are and how persistent the meowing can be, but
please, for the well being of your best friend, don't fall for it!
Research shows that dogs of ideal weight live longer and medical problems show up later in life.
Arthritis is the most common problem seen in overweight dogs. Studies show an almost 3 year difference in
onset of arthritis in the different weight groups. Other disorders seen more often in overweight pets include
cancer, skin disease, liver disease, uterine infections, diabetes, and seizures.
Caloric requirements will vary greatly between individual animals, depending on their individual metabolism
and exercise. Caloric needs will also vary in an individual, during different stages of life and even times of
the year. This makes routine weight evaluation and feeding adjustments necessary.
Body condition is the best way to determine if your dog is getting too much, too little, or just the right
amount of food. Lightly rub your finger tips across your pets rib cage. You should be able to easily feel
the definition of the individual ribs. There should be NO "cushion" or fat layer. When viewed from
above, there should be an obvious narrowing at the end of the rib cage, the waist. When viewed from the
side, there should be a tuck up of the abdomen.
ideal weight. I realize how pathetic those puppy dog eyes are and how persistent the meowing can be, but
please, for the well being of your best friend, don't fall for it!
Research shows that dogs of ideal weight live longer and medical problems show up later in life.
Arthritis is the most common problem seen in overweight dogs. Studies show an almost 3 year difference in
onset of arthritis in the different weight groups. Other disorders seen more often in overweight pets include
cancer, skin disease, liver disease, uterine infections, diabetes, and seizures.
Caloric requirements will vary greatly between individual animals, depending on their individual metabolism
and exercise. Caloric needs will also vary in an individual, during different stages of life and even times of
the year. This makes routine weight evaluation and feeding adjustments necessary.
Body condition is the best way to determine if your dog is getting too much, too little, or just the right
amount of food. Lightly rub your finger tips across your pets rib cage. You should be able to easily feel
the definition of the individual ribs. There should be NO "cushion" or fat layer. When viewed from
above, there should be an obvious narrowing at the end of the rib cage, the waist. When viewed from the
side, there should be a tuck up of the abdomen.
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If your pet needs to shed a few pounds, consult with your veterinarian about the best way to go about it.
Often times decreasing the amount of food (including snacks) will do the trick. Sometimes a prescription diet
NOT give up. There's no reason for a pet to remain overweight with proper monitoring of it's diet.
If you're starting with a puppy, lean body weight is just as important. An overweight puppy is putting undue
stress on it's forming joints. This can lead to serious orthopedic disorders as an adult. Prevention of obesity
is much easier then a drastic weight loss program, and much healthier.
Often times decreasing the amount of food (including snacks) will do the trick. Sometimes a prescription diet
NOT give up. There's no reason for a pet to remain overweight with proper monitoring of it's diet.
If you're starting with a puppy, lean body weight is just as important. An overweight puppy is putting undue
stress on it's forming joints. This can lead to serious orthopedic disorders as an adult. Prevention of obesity
is much easier then a drastic weight loss program, and much healthier.
Sandra Statter, DVM