Obesity in companion dogs is a welfare emergency affecting an estimated 40-50% of the UK dog population, causing pain, reduced mobility, and shortened lifespan.
Companion dog obesity has reached proportions that represent a mainstream welfare crisis: the majority of veterinary practices report that obesity is the most common preventable condition they see. The welfare consequences are direct and significant — excess body weight accelerates osteoarthritis progression causing chronic joint pain, impairs thermoregulation and exercise tolerance, and compresses the respiratory system in already compromised brachycephalic breeds. Obese dogs live shorter, more painful lives than dogs maintained at healthy weight. The causes are primarily owner behaviour — overfeeding, excess treats, insufficient exercise — often driven by the anthropomorphic interpretation of food giving as affection. Veterinary communication that frames weight management as a welfare and love issue rather than a cosmetic concern, combined with structured weight loss programmes, achieves the best outcomes for affected individuals.