The five dog breeds most at risk of being overweight and how to stop them from piling on the pounds
Being overweight can cause health complications in dogs 🐶
- Around half of all dogs in the UK are overweight.
- Some dog breeds are more prone to weight gain and health complications.
- Vet Nurse Leah Callaghan from Butternut Box, reveals how to help dogs shed those extra pounds.
It’s estimated that around half of the dogs in the UK are overweight, with many pet parents not aware of the health complications and dangers this can cause.
Vet Nurse Leah Callaghan from Butternut Box, reveals simple ways to help dogs shed those extra pounds, why overindulging can do more harm than good, and practical tips every owner can use to keep their pets fit and healthy.
Leah said: “It’s not always about a single indulgence. Sometimes small changes in daily routine, like shorter winter walks, skipping regular play sessions, or slightly more generous meal portions, can add up faster than owners realise.”
Five dog breeds prone to weight gain
While any dog can become overweight, certain breeds are more predisposed to obesity due to genetic factors, metabolic differences, and varying activity levels. Leah highlights five breeds owners should keep an eye on:
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are notoriously food-motivated and can gain weight quickly if portions aren’t carefully controlled. Regular exercise, portioned meals, and monitoring their calorie intake are key to helping Labs start the new year fit and healthy.
Cocker Spaniel
These energetic dogs may still gain weight, particularly if their exercise routine is disrupted. Pet parents should focus on consistent activity and portion control to help their pets shed any unnecessary pounds.
Beagle
Beagles have big appetites and slower metabolisms, making them prone to carrying extra weight. Careful monitoring of meals and snacks can help prevent small indulgences from turning into long-term weight gain.
Dachshund
Their long backs make excess weight particularly risky, increasing the chance of spinal injuries and joint strain. It’s important to help Dachshunds maintain a healthy weight with controlled meals and gentle exercise to ease any weight gain.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are less active by nature, and even modest weight gain can worsen breathing issues, reduce stamina, and strain joints. Short walks, portion-controlled meals, and careful monitoring of body condition are crucial to help them get back into a healthier routine.
How to manage weight gain in dogs
Leah advises that the key to reversing post-Christmas weight gain is a combination of balanced nutrition, controlled portions, and regular exercise. To help manage Christmas weight gain, Leah recommends a combination of the following:
Control portions
Reduce daily calorie intake by 10–20% or adjust meal sizes gradually. If they struggle with the reduction, dividing portions of multiple meals so they do not wait as long between meals.
Swap treats
Replace high-calorie snacks with healthy alternatives like dog-safe fruits and veggies.
Boost activity
Add extra playtime, walks, or interactive games to keep your dog moving.
Consistency matters
Small, daily changes add up, and post-December weight gain can be reversed safely.
Support overall health
Fresh meals provide omega-3s, complex carbs, and nutrients for healthy skin, coat, digestion, and energy.
Leah said: “Even small adjustments, like swapping high-calorie treats for healthier alternatives, gradually reducing meal portions, or increasing playtime, can make a noticeable difference over time.”
You can find out more information about how to tell if your dog is overweight at the RSPCA.