Overweight Dogs in the UK: The Facts and 7 Simple Ways to Help

Overweight Dogs in the UK: The Facts and 7 Simple Ways to Help

Short answer: UK research suggests about 1 in 14 dogs is recorded by their vet as overweight each year, and the true number is likely higher. Extra weight is linked to joint problems, so small daily changes to food, treats and exercise can make a real difference.

The facts

  • 7.1% of dogs under veterinary care were recorded as overweight in a single year, in a Royal Veterinary College (RVC) VetCompass study of 22,333 dogs. Overweight was the third most common problem vets recorded, after dental disease and ear infections.
  • Breed matters. Compared with crossbreeds, the odds of being overweight were higher for pugs (3.1×), Beagles (2.7×), Golden Retrievers (2.6×), English Springer Spaniels (2.0×), Border Terriers (1.7×) and Labradors (1.7×).
  • Middle age is the risk zone. Dogs aged 6 to 9 had about three times the odds of dogs under 3. Neutered males had the highest risk of the sex groups.
  • Joints carry the cost. A separate RVC study found dogs heavier than average for their breed had 2.3 times the odds of osteoarthritis.
  • Owners often don't know. PDSA reports that 32% of dog owners don't know their dog's weight.
  • Vets see it getting worse. 74% of vets surveyed by UK Pet Food believe pet obesity is increasing.

How to tell if your dog is overweight

Your vet can give your dog a body condition score, which is more useful than weight alone. At home, three quick checks help:

  • Ribs: you should be able to feel them easily under a thin layer of fat, without pressing hard.
  • Waist: looking down from above, you should see a waist behind the ribs.
  • Tummy tuck: from the side, the belly should rise up towards the back legs, not hang level or low.

PDSA runs a free Big Weigh In at participating vet practices, where your dog can be weighed and body condition scored.

7 simple ways to help

  1. Weigh, don't guess. Measure food with scales rather than a scoop, and feed to your dog's ideal weight, not its current weight. Check the pack guidelines with your vet.
  2. Count the treats. Many vets recommend treats make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories, and the rest should come from a complete, balanced diet.
  3. Take treats out of the meal. On training days, set aside some of the day's kibble to use as rewards.
  4. Stop sharing your plate. Table scraps add up fast and can upset the stomach.
  5. Walk every day, and build up slowly if your dog is heavy or older. Sniffing walks and gentle play count too.
  6. Weigh monthly. Many vet practices let you pop in and use the scales. Aim for slow, steady progress.
  7. Get a vet check first if your dog has gained weight quickly or seems tired. Some medical conditions cause weight gain.

Where supplements fit in

Supplements don't cause weight loss, and they are not a replacement for portion control and exercise. For overweight and older dogs, many owners also choose a joint supplement to support healthy joints during weight loss. Count chews as part of the day's treats.

Sources

  • Royal Veterinary College VetCompass: overweight in dogs under UK primary veterinary care (2021); prevalence of common disorders in UK dogs (2021); osteoarthritis in UK dogs (2018).
  • PDSA, Big Weigh In / PAW Report data on owner awareness of pet weight.
  • UK Pet Food, pet obesity research with vets.
  • VCA Animal Hospitals, guidance on dog treats (the 10% rule).

This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Lakshio chews are complementary feed for dogs and are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease.

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