# Dog Obesity UK — Quick answer

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/dog-obesity-uk): Dog Obesity UK — Quick answer. Around half of UK dogs are overweight or obese, which shortens life and worsens arthritis, diabetes and breathing problems. Use a body condition score, weigh food on scales, and work with your vet on a safe target — aim for gradual loss of 1–2% body weight per week.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/dog-obesity-uk): Dog Obesity UK — Why obesity is a UK welfare concern. According to the PDSA and BVA, obesity is one of the top welfare issues for British dogs. Excess fat is not cosmetic — it is an active tissue that promotes inflammation and increases strain on joints, heart and lungs. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop: - Osteoarthritis and cruciate ligament injury - Type 2 diabetes mellitus - Respiratory difficulty (especially brachycephalic breeds) - Reduced exercise tolerance and heat intolerance - Shorter lifespan compared with lean dogs of the same breed Many owners normalise gradual weight gain over years. Regular weighing at the vet — or on home scales for small dogs — catches drift early.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/dog-obesity-uk): Dog Obesity UK — Assessing body condition. According to Blue Cross and PDSA guidance, use these checks at home: | Check | Ideal | |-------|-------| | Ribs | Felt easily with flat hand — not visible in most breeds | | Waist | Visible tuck when viewed from above | | Abdomen | Tucked up when viewed from the side | | Weight trend | Stable adult weight unless vet advises change | Vets use a body condition score (BCS) — commonly 1–9, with 4–5 ideal. Ask your practice to record BCS at every visit so you can track trends. Puppies, elderly dogs and some breeds (such as sighthounds) need individual interpretation — do not rely on breed average weight charts alone.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/dog-obesity-uk): Dog Obesity UK — Causes beyond "too many treats". According to the BVA, common contributors include: - Overfeeding relative to activity level - High-calorie treats, table scraps and multiple family members feeding - Reduced exercise after injury or in bad weather - Neutering without portion adjustment — see Dog neutering UK - Underlying illness — hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease or fluid retention If your dog gains weight despite measured feeding, or shows other signs such as increased thirst, coat changes or a pot belly, book a vet examination before cutting calories further.

Source: https://pethealth.org.uk/health/dog-obesity-uk