Obese and Overweight Dogs: What You Need To Know

Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue
Jun 10
4 min read

Let’s talk about something a little heavy, literally. Canine obesity is a growing concern for dog owners across the globe, and it’s about more than just a few extra pounds.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your pup is tipping the scales in the wrong direction, you’re in the right place. Here’s what obesity in dogs really means, why it matters, and what you can do to help your pup live their healthiest life.

What Does It Mean if a Dog Is Obese?

Obesity in dogs is defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat that leads to an increased weight. According to VCA, dogs are considered obese when they are 20% or more above their ideal body weight.

What Does It Mean if a Dog Is Overweight?

The key difference between being "overweight" and "obese" lies in degree. Overweight dogs are generally 10% to 20% over their ideal weight, while obese dogs are 20% or more above.

How Common Is Obesity in Dogs?

According to dog food company Ollie, an estimated 60% of dogs in the U.S. were classified as overweight or obese in 2024. That number is staggering!

What’s even more shocking is that many pet parents don’t recognize that their dog is overweight. The same study found that three in five dog owners thought their pups were a healthy weight.

How Do I Know if My Dog Is Obese or Overweight?

Veterinarians use something called the body condition score (BCS) to assess a dog’s weight. This scale ranges from one (too thin) to nine (too heavy), with four to five being ideal.

You can do a quick check at home:

Can you feel your dog’s ribs without pressing too hard?
Does your dog have a visible waist when viewed from above?
Is there a tuck in the belly when viewed from the side?

If you answered “no” to these questions or you aren’t sure, it’s time to talk with your vet about a weight assessment.

Learn More: At-Home Dog Health Checks

What Causes a Dog to Become Obese or Overweight?

Like humans, dogs can gain weight for a variety of reasons:

Age: Older dogs are usually less active and have slower metabolisms.
Breed predisposition: Certain breeds, like Labradors, Beagles, and Dachshunds, are more prone to weight gain.
Lack of exercise: Sedentary lifestyles can contribute to weight gain.
Medical conditions: Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease can contribute to obesity.
Overfeeding: Food, treats, and table scraps add up quickly.
Poor Diet: Poor quality dog food can increase your dog’s weight.
Spaying/Neutering: Hormonal changes can reduce metabolic rate.

Most cases boil down to an imbalance between calories consumed and calories burned. Even a little extra each day adds up over time.

Why Is Being Overweight or Obese Dangerous for Dogs?

Unfortunately, those extra pounds aren’t just cosmetic. They can affect nearly every system in your dog’s body.

Obesity increases the risk for:

Anesthetic complications
Cancer
Diabetes
Heart disease or hypertension
Osteoarthritis and degeneration of joints
Urinary issues

Overweight and obese dogs also have a harder time regulating body temperature, making them more prone to heatstroke.

What’s worse, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that dogs with a healthy body weight live two and a half years longer than dogs who are overweight.

Beyond the physical toll, obesity can affect a dog’s mental well-being, too. Dogs who can’t run and play comfortably may become depressed.

Can Being Overweight or Obese Kill My Dog?

Yes. Many of the conditions that obesity causes can lead to life-shortening conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Even routine vet care can become riskier if anesthesia is involved.

Also, remember that overweight or obese dogs may live up to two and a half years less than dogs who have a healthy body weight.

How Can I Get My Dog to a Healthy Weight?

Weight loss is achievable with a little dedication and the right plan! Here’s how to get started:

Talk to your vet: They can recommend a safe target weight and rule out medical causes.
Measure meals: Ditch the "eyeballing" and use a measuring cup for accuracy.
Choose weight management food: High-fiber, lower-calorie formulas help dogs feel full longer.
Limit treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Skip the table scraps: Treating your dog to some of the food on your plate doesn’t help keep the pounds off. Stop feeding your dog people food!
Increase activity: Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation help burn calories and boost mood. But increase activity slowly so you don’t risk overdoing it or injuring your dog.
Track progress: Regular weigh-ins help you adjust as needed.

Slow and steady wins the race. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention recommends aiming for a 1% to 5% weight loss per week depending on your dog’s age, condition, and size. Rapid weight loss can be harmful, especially in certain breeds.

Learn More: How To Choose the Right Food for Your Dog

Final Thoughts

Helping your dog lose weight might feel like a challenge, but it’s one of the best gifts you can give them. With a bit of patience, support, and consistency, your dog can slim down, feel better, and enjoy a longer, happier life.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended as professional medical advice. It is based on personal experience and online research. Please consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog's health.