How Can You Tell If Your Dog is Overweight?

Just like humans, dogs can struggle with weight issues that impact their overall health and quality of life. It's important to recognize the signs of an overweight dog early, as excess weight can lead to health complications like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

Overweight dogs can potentially have many long term health issues from arthritis to liver disease due because of their excess weight. However, it is never too late to help your dog lose weight even if your pup is approaching his or her senior year. 

How Can You Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight?

If you're unsure whether your dog is overweight, here are some clear indicators to help you assess their condition.

Try the Rib Test

One of the simplest ways to tell if your dog is overweight is by trying the "rib test." When you gently run your hands along your dog's sides, you should be able to feel their ribs easily but not see them. If you can’t feel their ribs without applying pressure, your dog may have too much fat covering them. On the other hand, if their ribs are overly visible, they could be underweight.

Observe Their Waistline

A healthy dog should have a visible waistline when viewed from above and the side. When you look down at your dog from above, there should be a slight tuck or narrowing at their waist just behind their ribs. From the side, you should notice a gentle upward curve towards the rear (called an abdominal tuck). If your dog looks round or barrel-shaped without a defined waistline, this could be a sign of excess weight.

Overweight Dogs Can Have Serious Long-Term Health Issues From The Excess Weight

There are many illnesses and conditions that can occur when your dog is overweight which include the following:

• Arthritis due to the weight being tough on the joints, torn knee ligaments

• Diabetes

• Bladder and urinary tract disease

• Liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, gall bladder disease

• Spine problems, high blood pressure, and even heart failure

As always, first speak to your veterinarian who can help put your dog on a diet if you think your dog is overweight

Your vet can best inform you of the ideal weight for your dog and get them back on track to a healthy weight. Your veterinarian can also make you aware of any potential health concerns or things to watch for as you start the new program.

Below are some guidelines/tips to help your dog lose weight and keep it off:

1. Try A High fiber, weight management foods are readily available (under vet’s guidance).

Change your dog’s current diet to a weight management food. There are so many different variations on the market that it is a great way to get your dog to lose weight. Look for high-quality meat ingredients as the main ingredient as the primary healthy protein source and fewer additives or fillers.

2. Keep consistent with your dog’s diet and avoid treats and table scraps.

Feeding your dog treats or table scraps can add extra calories and contribute to a dog’s obesity. Some of us like to think of treats as a reward for good behavior. Try looking for healthier items to substitute for the treats such as vegetables or even a few small pieces of cooked, lean meat. 

3. Establish a healthy and fun exercise schedule

Depending on your dog’s size and condition, you can jog, walk, or even bike with your dog if they are able to do so. Just make sure that your dog is OK and able and willing to keep up. The exercise needs to be consistent so it’s always best to start at a relaxed pace. 

Even just playing with your pup in your home or yard is a great way to provide your dogs with a lot of exercise.  Simple fetching games for dogs is another great form of exercise.

4. Give your dog’s new diet some time to see the results

Be patient. You really need to wait a few months to assess whether the new diet and exercise has helped your dog lose weight. Weight loss should be a gradual process, and you don’t want your dog to feel too deprived.

If you feed your dog a high fiber, low calorie grade dog food, you can feed your pup the same amount and he or she will hardly notice the difference. In fact, they are designed to fill them up.

5. Stay consistent and stick to the diet and exercise.

Many dogs know how to beg and give you a sad look to show that they are hungry or want more.  However, it is important to remember that your dog is not hungry, but trying his or her best to convince you that he is.  Stick to your diet plan and your dog won’t starve!

Just as in humans, it is important to keep your dog’s weight within a normal range. And, if your dog does need to diet, talk to your vet who can give you the best course of action to help your dog lose weight. Healthier eating habits and consistent exercise can also help your dog in the short and long term.