Is Your Dog Overweight?

Many Australian pet owners don’t realise just how common obesity is among dogs. In fact one in three Australian dogs are overweight. 

While it’s tempting to think a heavier dog is just cute, it’s important to recognise the serious health risks they face.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Overweight

It’s always best to talk to your veterinarian about their weight, but there are some signs you can look for on your own:

• Can you see their waistline or feel their ribs without much effort?
• Are they panting even in cooler weather or after light exercise?
• Are they more sluggish than usual?
• Do they struggle to jump into the car or onto furniture?
• Have they lost interest in playing or running?
• Is their face becoming more rounded?

If you notice a few of these signs, It might be time to book your pet in for a check up and weigh in.

Why Being Overweight Is a Problem

With a third of Australian dogs considered overweight, we see a lot of pets with obesity-related issues. Carrying extra weight can lead to various health concerns, such as:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Heart conditions

Moreover, overweight dogs can suffer from breathing problems, hormonal imbalances, and other disorders, all of which reduce their quality of life.

How To Help Your Overweight Dog

Before making any drastic changes, such as cutting back their food or increasing exercise, book your dog in for a check up and weigh in here. We can help determine their target weight and provide guidance on how to reach it.

If your dog is already in good shape, here’s how to keep them on the right track:

• Skip the table scraps: Not only are many of our favourite foods harmful to dogs, but extra food on top of their regular meals can lead to weight gain.

• Stick to a feeding schedule: Feeding your dog on a consistent schedule helps avoid accidental overeating. Some owners break meals into smaller portions, but the key is sticking to set times.

• Choose high-quality dog food: Some dog foods are loaded with fat and lacking in fibre. Be sure to read labels carefully and speak to the experts for recommendations for your pet.

Get started now

Don’t delay your pet’s health. Contact us here or talk to us on (07) 3871 3888 to get started.