Is your dog a healthy weight?

When you see your dog every day, it’s easy to miss the small changes like a bit of softness around the ribs, a slower walk or a dog who’s not quite as playful as they used to be. Many owners assume these things are just part of getting older.

But for a growing number of dogs, the real issue is something far more manageable and that’s excess weight.

Canine obesity is now one of the most common health problems seen in pets. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it rarely comes from neglect. In fact, it often comes from love with the extra biscuit before bed, the crust from your toast, the treat because they looked at you with those eyes. Small things add up over time.

Why do dogs gain weight so easily?

Dogs evolved as scavengers. Their ancestors survived by eating whenever food was available, because they didn’t know when the next meal would come. That instinct hasn’t disappeared. So when your dog begs, it doesn’t always mean they’re hungry, it often means their biology is doing what it’s designed to do.

Modern diets can make this even harder as many commercial foods rely heavily on carbohydrates such as rice, maize, wheat, potatoes and peas. These ingredients help form kibble, but they also contribute calories your dog may not need. When dogs eat more energy than they burn, the body stores the excess as fat.

Why excess weight matters

Fat isn’t just ‘padding’. It’s biologically active tissue that releases inflammatory compounds throughout the body. Over time, this low‑grade inflammation can affect almost every system.

Extra weight can contribute to:

• Reduced mobility and joint pain
• Heart and respiratory strain
• Lower energy levels
• Poorer recovery from illness
• Increased risk of diabetes
• Shorter lifespan
  

Many owners notice their dog slowing down and assume it’s age. In reality, even a few extra kilos can make everyday movement harder.

How to check your dog’s weight

A healthy dog should have:

• A visible waist when viewed from above
• A gentle 'tuck’ behind the ribs when viewed from the side
• Ribs that can be easily felt under a light layer of fat
• If you’re unsure, don’t guess as most owners underestimate their dog’s weight

What you can do to help your dog

If you’re unsure where your dog sits right now, you can pop into Lancashire Dog Treats for a free weight check and friendly feeding advice. We can talk you through simple changes, help you understand what your dog needs and point you towards natural, tasty low‑fat feeding options that won’t pile on the calories. Small tweaks can make a big difference to how your dog feels day to day.

Read our follow‑on blog, about how to feed treats without the guilt, including smart swaps, portion tips and healthier choices.