Canine obesity is one of the most common preventable welfare problems in companion animals. Excess weight causes pain, disease, and reduced quality of life, yet is largely within owner control.
Canine obesity is a welfare problem that owners frequently do not recognize because gradual weight gain normalizes gradually. An overweight dog is in a state of chronic reduced welfare — joints bear excess load, breathing is harder, thermoregulation is impaired, and exercise is less pleasurable. The association between obesity and arthritis creates a self-reinforcing cycle where pain reduces activity and reduced activity worsens obesity. Effective weight management through portion control, reduced treat calories, and appropriate exercise requires owner commitment but is achievable without expensive interventions. Veterinary guidance on target weight, calorie calculation, and diet food selection significantly improves success rates.