Over half of companion dogs in many countries are overweight or obese. Excess weight causes pain, reduces lifespan, and impairs quality of life — but prevention is straightforward.
Canine obesity is a welfare crisis that is largely invisible to owners because overweight dogs are normalized, their discomfort is stoic and gradual, and the link between owner behavior and dog health is not emotionally salient. The welfare consequences are significant: arthritis pain is amplified by excess weight, respiratory compromise reduces quality of life, and shortened lifespan represents years of lost experience for both dog and owner. The solution — appropriate caloric intake matched to activity level and individual metabolism — is technically simple but requires owner education and veterinary engagement. Veterinary conversations about weight that are empathetic rather than judgmental improve compliance. Regular body condition scoring makes weight management tangible and actionable.