Canine obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in dogs, significantly reducing quality and length of life. Effective weight management requires structured programmes addressing both diet and exercise.
Canine obesity is a major welfare problem because it is preventable yet causes significant suffering through joint pain, reduced exercise tolerance, heat stress, and shortened lifespan. Owners often underestimate their dog's weight or treat food as a primary expression of affection, making behaviour change challenging. Effective weight management combines dietary calorie restriction with increased structured exercise, regular weigh-ins, and owner education. Veterinary nurse-led weight clinics have good evidence of effectiveness. The welfare goal is not just weight loss but improved mobility, comfort, and quality of life throughout the dog's senior years.