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Managing your dog's weight is an essential part of pet care. An underweight or overweight pup can develop serious health issues, while a canine at the correct weight is most likely to be comfortable, healthy, and energetic. The following guide offers additional information on obesity in dogs so you know what to look for and what you can do as a pet owner to extend the life of your furry friend.

How Can You Tell If a Dog Is Obese?

Signs of Canine Obesity

The person most qualified to tell you the correct weight for your dog is a veterinarian. However, you can get a rough idea by feeling for their ribs and around the base of the tail. Your pup is not overweight if you can feel each bone, but it is likely obese if they are hidden by a layer of fat. 

Look at your dog from above and from the side; all breeds should have a visible waist behind the ribs, even if it's hidden by a thick fur coat. Listen to their breathing, and if it's labored while doing normal activities—like walking—their weight is likely affecting their health.

Effects of Obesity

pet care

Being overweight can impact your dog’s activity level, discouraging them from getting exercise and making physical activities difficult. The extra pounds also put stress on their bones, joints, heart, and lungs, which increases their risk of pain, inflammation, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. 

Some preliminary evidence suggests that high body weight can increase a dog’s risk for developing certain forms of cancer. Correct pet care tactics can prevent obesity and lower your furry friend's risk of health problems.

Causes & Prevention

Hormone disorders can increase a pup's risk of weight gain; spaying and neutering procedures can affect your pet since these operations change a dog’s hormone production. Canines' metabolisms slow as they get older, which also makes them more prone to weight gain. Some breeds, like beagles, basset hounds, golden retrievers, and labs, are genetically more likely to become obese.

The biggest contributor to obesity is your pet care routine, which can include diet and exercise. A dog needs anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours of daily playtime, whether you take them for a walk or play fetch. Consult a veterinarian regarding how much food and how many treats they should receive. If your dog is obese, discuss diet and lifestyle changes with a vet. They can tell you the correct amount of food for an animal's size and age and create a diet plan to get your pet to a healthy weight without harmful underfeeding.

 

To discuss your dog’s diet and pet care, visit Animal Hospital of New Albany in Ohio. This veterinary clinic has been serving Franklin and Licking counties for 30 years. Their compassionate team offers medical care, grooming, and boarding, and they have a convenient on-site pharmacy for pet owners' convenience. Call (614) 855-9643 to make an appointment, or visit their website for more information.

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