Dog obesity has reached epidemic proportions, causing chronic pain, reduced mobility, and shortened lifespan. It is almost entirely preventable through responsible ownership.
Dog obesity is a welfare crisis driven almost entirely by human behavior. Dogs cannot control their own food intake or exercise levels. Overfeeding treats, feeding human food, and insufficient exercise create animals in chronic discomfort who cannot move freely or engage in natural behaviors. Veterinary professionals play a crucial role, but owner education and honest conversations about body condition scoring are essential for meaningful change.