Companion Animals

Dog Obesity - Welfare and Management

Canine obesity reduces mobility, increases disease risk and impairs quality of life, but structured weight loss programmes achieve good outcomes.

Key Facts

An estimated 40-50% of companion dogs in the UK and US are overweight or obese
Obesity increases risk of orthopaedic pain, diabetes, respiratory disease and early death
Body condition scoring by vets and owners is the primary assessment tool
Calorie restriction combined with increased exercise achieves sustained weight loss
Flavoured prescription weight loss diets improve palatability and compliance

Welfare Considerations

Obesity is a major and growing welfare problem in companion dogs, causing chronic pain and reduced quality of life. Owner education and veterinary weight management programmes are essential.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet to body condition score your dog at every visit
Follow a vet-recommended feeding guide and avoid table scraps
Increase exercise gradually and consistently as part of a weight management plan