5 Common Mistakes That Could Be Making Your Dog Gain Weight

Introduction: Why Your Dog’s Weight Matters

Canine obesity is a growing concern, mirroring trends in the human population. Studies have estimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity in dogs to be between 22% and 40% globally, with some studies showing higher numbers in certain regions or demographics.

A study published in Companion Animal Health and Genetics found that nearly half of dogs (48.9%) attending UK primary-care practices were overweight or obese. Another large-scale study involving 4.9 million dogs in the US indicated that 66.93% of dogs who were overweight or obese in their growth stages remained so as adults.

It is essential to note that many pet owners underestimate their pet's weight, with studies revealing a significant discrepancy between owner perception and veterinary assessments. In this blog, we will discuss 5 mistakes that lead to weight gain in dogs.

Mistake #1: Overfeeding Without Realising It

A significant factor contributing to the rising rates of obesity in dogs is unintentional overfeeding by their owners. Many pet parents, driven by affection, offer extra treats or larger portions without realizing the impact on their dog's caloric intake.

Inaccurate Portioning

Eyeballing or guessing food portions instead of accurately measuring them can lead to unintentional overfeeding over time, according to The Kennel Club. Many owners don't realize that standard measuring cups are designed for liquids and can be inaccurate when measuring kibble due to variations in kibble size, shape, and weight. The most accurate method for ensuring consistent portion sizes is to weigh the food in grams using a kitchen scale.

Portion Creep

Gradually increasing the serving size over time, even slightly, can lead to a significant increase in calories consumed daily.

Neglecting Individual Needs

Dog's caloric requirements vary greatly based on their breed, age, size, body type, reproductive status, and activity level. A one-size-fits-all approach to feeding is rarely appropriate. For example, puppies require more calories than adult dogs, while senior and spayed or neutered dogs generally need fewer calories.

Hidden Calories in Treats and Table Scraps

Treats, particularly human food or high-calorie dog snacks, can contribute significantly to a dog's daily calorie intake without owners realizing it. Veterinary nutritionists recommend that treats should constitute no more than 10% of a dog's daily caloric intake. To put this in perspective, for a medium-sized dog weighing 23 kg, one bully stick can account for approximately 9% of their daily calorie needs. Table scraps can be particularly problematic due to their high fat, sodium, sugar, and calorie content, along with the risk of containing ingredients toxic to dogs.

Solutions for preventing overfeeding

• Consult with a veterinarian: Determine the appropriate portion sizes and feeding frequency based on your dog's individual needs.

• Measure food accurately: Use a kitchen scale to weigh food portions in grams for precise measurements instead of relying on measuring cups or estimates.

• Be mindful of treats: Factor treats into your dog's daily calorie intake and opt for low-calorie options or use small pieces of their regular kibble as rewards.

• Establish a consistent feeding schedule: Avoid free-feeding and stick to a consistent feeding routine, preferably feeding two or three meals per day.

Mistake #2: Lack of Regular Exercise

Insufficient physical activity is a significant factor contributing to weight gain and obesity in dogs. Exercise is crucial for dogs, not only for maintaining a healthy weight but also for their mental and physical well-being. Many owners may underestimate the amount of activity their dogs truly need, especially if their dog appears calm or doesn't exhibit destructive behaviors indoors. Why exercise is crucial for dogs:

• Weight Management: Regular physical activity helps dogs burn excess calories and maintain a healthy metabolism, reducing the risk of obesity and related health problems like diabetes and joint issues.

• Joint and Muscle Health: Exercise strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and keeps joints healthy, which is particularly important for breeds prone to orthopedic problems and senior dogs.

• Mental Stimulation and Behavioral Improvement: A well-exercised dog is less likely to develop behavioral problems like excessive barking, destructive chewing, or digging. Exercise provides an outlet for excess energy and helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a calmer and more balanced temperament.

Tips to Address the challenge of insufficient exercise

• Individualized Exercise Plans: Dogs' exercise requirements vary based on factors like breed, age, size, and overall health. Consulting with a veterinarian can help determine the appropriate amount and type of exercise for your dog's specific needs.

• Beyond Walks: While daily walks are essential, supplementing them with other activities like games of fetch, agility training, swimming, or interactive playtime can provide a more comprehensive workout and enhance mental stimulation.

• Adapting to Circumstances: Even in indoor-only households or areas with unfavorable weather, there are numerous ways to keep dogs active. Indoor games like hide-and-seek, tug-of-war, or using a dog treadmill can provide sufficient physical and mental stimulation.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Underlying Health Issues

While overfeeding and lack of exercise are significant factors contributing to weight gain in dogs, it's crucial not to overlook the possibility of underlying medical conditions. Sometimes, unexplained weight gain is a symptom of a health issue that needs veterinary attention.

Common medical causes of dog weight gain

• Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for regulating metabolism. A slowed metabolism can lead to weight gain, even if the dog's appetite and activity level remain constant. Other signs of hypothyroidism include hair loss (especially on the body), a dull coat, lethargy, skin problems, and intolerance to cold temperatures.

• Cushing's Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): This endocrine disorder results from the adrenal glands producing excessive cortisol, a hormone involved in stress response, metabolism, and inflammation. High cortisol levels can lead to symptoms like increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and muscle weakness. Weight gain is a common symptom, often accompanied by redistribution of fat, leading to a distended abdomen.

• Fluid Retention (Edema or Ascites): Conditions like heart disease or liver problems can cause fluid to accumulate in the body, particularly in the abdomen, giving the appearance of weight gain. This bloating or swelling is distinct from fat and indicates a serious health concern that requires immediate veterinary assessment. Dogs with edema may also show other signs like shortness of breath, lethargy, reduced energy, and discomfort. Ascites, or fluid accumulation in the abdomen, can be a symptom of conditions like liver disease, heart failure, protein-losing enteropathy, or certain tumors.

• Hormonal Imbalances (other than hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease): Various other hormonal disruptions can also affect a dog's metabolism and lead to weight fluctuations, including unexplained weight gain.

• Certain Medications: Some prescription drugs, especially when taken long-term, can have side effects that include weight gain. It's crucial to discuss any concerns about medication-related weight gain with your veterinarian, who may suggest adjusting the dosage or trying an alternative medication.

• Tumors: The growth of internal tumors can also contribute to unexplained weight gain or cause a bloated appearance.

Can parasites cause weight gain?

While typically, parasites cause weight loss due to nutrient malabsorption and digestive issues, in some cases, they can cause an apparent weight gain by triggering fluid buildup in the abdomen, leading to a bloated or "pot-bellied" appearance, especially in younger dogs. This fluid retention is not actual fat gain, but a symptom of the parasitic infestation.

Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Dog Food

The type of dog food you choose for your furry companion significantly impacts their weight and overall health. Selecting the wrong formula can inadvertently lead to excessive calorie intake and weight gain, even if you are diligent with portion control. Understanding the nuances of different dog food types and feeding methods is crucial for maintaining your dog's ideal weight.

High-calorie formulas and breed suitability

Many commercially available dry dog foods are marketed as suitable for "all breeds," but these formulas may be too calorically dense for less active or smaller dogs, notes Pet Lifestyle. Different breeds, ages, and activity levels dictate varying caloric needs. A dog who is sedentary or has a slower metabolism will gain weight if fed a high-calorie food intended for an active or working dog.

According to Purina India, less active dogs require less fat and can benefit from "light" formulas to prevent weight gain.

Free-feeding versus scheduled meals

• Free-feeding, also known as ad libitum feeding, involves leaving food out for dogs to eat at their leisure, without any portion control or scheduled feeding times. While this method may seem convenient, it can significantly contribute to overeating and obesity. The constant availability of food can also lead to dental problems, as dogs may not receive enough chewing stimulation. Furthermore, in multi-pet households, free feeding makes it challenging to monitor individual food intake and can lead to competition or resource guarding among pets.

• Scheduled feeding, in contrast, involves providing a measured amount of food at specific times each day. Most veterinarians and animal nutritionists recommend this method for weight management and overall health. This approach allows for:

• Portion control: Ensuring your dog receives the correct amount of food tailored to their individual needs.

• Monitoring appetite: Making it easier to detect changes in your dog's appetite, which can be an early indicator of illness.

• Establishing a routine: Providing predictability and consistency, which can be beneficial for training and housebreaking.

Weight gain formulas and supplements: use with caution

Dog foods or supplements specifically marketed for "weight gain" or "muscle building" should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. These high-calorie formulas are designed for specific situations, such as:

• Underweight dogs are struggling to reach their ideal weight.

• Dogs recovering from illness, surgery, or injury.

• Highly active or working dogs require extra energy and nutrients.

• Puppies need additional calories for rapid growth.

Using these concentrated calorie sources inappropriately for healthy-weight or sedentary dogs can easily lead to unintentional overfeeding and subsequent weight problems.

Choosing the right dog food

• Consult with your veterinarian: They can help assess your dog's individual needs, including breed, age, size, activity level, and any health concerns, and recommend the most suitable diet.

• Decipher food labels: Look for a high-quality food with a named meat source (e.g., chicken, beef) as the first ingredient and avoid fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

• Consider life stage: Choose food formulated for your dog's specific life stage (puppy, adult, senior) as their nutritional requirements change with age.

• Opt for scheduled meals: Implement a consistent feeding schedule to control portions and monitor your dog's appetite effectively.

• Measure food accurately: Use a kitchen scale or a proper measuring cup to ensure precise portioning at each mealtime.

Mistake #5: Misreading Body Changes

Sometimes, dogs can appear to gain weight even if their owners haven't consciously increased their food intake. These perceived changes in body size can be misleading, particularly as dogs age. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, and owners need to be able to distinguish between healthy aging and concerning body changes that indicate a need for dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Age-related metabolic slowdown

As dogs enter their senior years, their metabolism naturally slows down. This slowdown means they burn fewer calories at rest and require less energy overall. According to Purina UK, if a senior dog continues to eat the same amount of the same food they consumed in their younger years, the excess calories will be stored as fat, leading to weight gain.

A dog's total daily energy requirements may decrease by as much as 30% to 40% during the last third of its life due to reduced activity and decreased metabolic rate. This age-related decrease in energy needs underscores the importance of adjusting caloric intake to prevent senior dogs from becoming overweight or obese.

Identifying signs of fat gain beyond the scale

The number on the scale isn't the only indicator of a dog's body condition. Observing physical cues and conducting tactile examinations can help owners identify signs of fat accumulation:

• Loss of a defined waistline: When viewed from above, a healthy dog has an hourglass shape with a noticeable tuck behind the ribs. If this waistline becomes rounded or disappears, it can signal excessive fat gain.

• Difficulty feeling ribs: You should be able to easily feel your dog's ribs beneath a thin layer of fat. If you have to press hard to feel them, they're likely carrying too much weight.

• Sagging belly or "fat pads": A noticeable sag or a swinging appearance of the belly when viewed from the side can indicate abdominal fat accumulation. Additionally, some dogs develop localized fat deposits or "fat pads" in areas like the hips, behind the front legs, or at the base of the tail. These pads can become quite pronounced in overweight or obese dogs.

• Reduced mobility or exercise intolerance: Dogs with excess weight may be less willing to engage in activities they once enjoyed, like running, jumping, or playing fetch. They might tire easily during walks, struggle to get up or down stairs, or show a general decrease in their overall activity level.

• Difficulty breathing: Overweight dogs, particularly those with brachycephalic (short-nosed) features, may experience labored breathing, increased panting, or wheezing during physical exertion or even at rest.

Importance of Recognising and Addressing Weight Gain

Ignoring these subtle body changes and attributing them solely to the aging process can have serious consequences for a dog's health. Excess weight can exacerbate age-related conditions like arthritis and joint pain, worsen cardiovascular health, and increase the risk of developing diabetes and certain cancers. It's crucial for owners to:

• Regularly assess their dog's body condition: Beyond simply observing their dog's appearance, owners can use tools like the Body Condition Score (BCS) chart, available from veterinarians or online, to objectively evaluate their dog's body fat percentage and determine if they're at an ideal weight.

• Consult with a veterinarian: If there are any concerns about a dog's weight, especially if there's a sudden or unexplained change, seeking professional guidance is paramount. A vet can rule out underlying medical conditions, recommend appropriate dietary adjustments, and create a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to the dog's individual needs.

Bonus Section: When Weight Gain Is Needed

While maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, there are specific circumstances where intentional weight gain is necessary for a dog's well-being. This includes rescue dogs that may be severely underweight, dogs recovering from illness or injury, or underweight puppies struggling to thrive. Safe and healthy weight gain focuses on providing high-quality nutrition to support muscle development, not simply increasing fat stores. Vet-approved tips for healthy weight gain

• High-quality, calorie-dense food: Transitioning to a nutrient-rich food specifically designed for weight gain or active dogs is a key first step. Look for formulas with higher levels of protein and fat to provide the necessary calories for healthy weight gain. If your dog is underweight, choosing a premium food with higher fat and protein content, specifically designed for active or underweight dogs, is recommended.

• Increased feeding frequency: Instead of feeding one or two large meals a day, distributing your dog's daily portion into three to four smaller meals can aid digestion and nutrient absorption, helping your dog to gain weight.

• Protein-rich additions: Incorporating cooked meats like chicken, turkey, or lean beef (without seasoning) can provide valuable protein for muscle development. Eggs, a good source of protein and fat, can be a beneficial addition to your dog's diet, as can fish like salmon or sardines, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Healthy fats and carbohydrates: Adding healthy fats, such as fish oil, salmon oil, or coconut oil, can support skin, coat, and joint health while boosting calorie intake. Complex carbohydrates, like sweet potatoes, yams, rice, or oatmeal, can provide sustained energy and additional calories.

• Utilize puppy formulas for young dogs: For puppies needing to gain weight rapidly, puppy formulas are often higher in calories and easily digestible, making them a suitable option. However, always consult a veterinarian before feeding puppy food to an adult dog.

• Supplements under veterinary guidance: Discussing with your veterinarian the use of dog-specific weight gain supplements like powders, oils, or meal toppers can help determine if they are appropriate for your dog's needs.

FAQs About Dog Weight Gain

Why is my dog suddenly gaining weight?

Sudden weight gain in dogs can result from overfeeding, lack of exercise, hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism), or certain medications. It’s important to assess both diet and activity while consulting a vet to rule out underlying medical issues.

Can worms or parasites make dogs gain weight?

Generally, worms and parasites cause weight loss, not gain. However, secondary effects (like bloating or fluid retention from other conditions) can sometimes mimic weight gain, which is why a veterinary diagnosis is essential.

Is weight gain normal as dogs age?

Yes—senior dogs often gain weight due to slower metabolism and reduced activity levels. However, it’s not inevitable or healthy. Adjusting their food intake and exercise routine can help maintain a healthy weight.

How can I tell if my dog is overweight?

Look for:

• A lack of a visible waist behind the ribs

• Difficulty feeling the ribs without pressing

• Sagging belly or noticeable fat pads

• Sluggishness or decreased stamina on walks

9. Conclusion: Help Your Dog Stay Happy & Healthy

Catching these common weight-related mistakes early can help prevent serious long-term health issues. Whether your dog is gaining too quickly or needs to safely add a few pounds, the key lies in balance, awareness, and consistency.

Always:

• Measure food portions and avoid free-feeding

• Ensure regular, age-appropriate exercise

• Monitor changes in weight or body shape

• Consult your vet before making major dietary or supplement changes