What is canine obesity? Obesity is defined as an excess of body fat. Dogs weighing 20% or more than their ideal body weight are considered obese. The incidence of obesity increases with age. This is because there is both a decrease in metabolic rate (how fast the dog's body burns up calories) and in physical activity (just like humans, dogs have a tendency to become more sedentary as they age). If you can't easily feel your dog's ribs and backbone; and, if from the side, your dog looks more like a sausage than a Greyhound, your dog needs to lose weight!

Obesity is a serious problem!! It is estimated that between 25 and 40% of pet dogs are overweight. Obesity can lead to respiratory difficulties and cardiovascular disease; musculoskeletal disease including arthritis, herniated discs, and ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments; decreased liver function as a result of fatty liver; potential reproduction problems; heat intolerance; increased surgical and anesthetic risk; decrease immune competence; diabetes mellitus; hypothyroidism; and pancreatitis. Doesn't make that extra doggie treat look very appealing, does it?

The most common cause of obesity is overeating. Some animals can have food available 24 hours a day, and still they will not become overweight. Other animals will not be able to control themselves and will eat everything that is available. Some causes may include boredom, idleness, and nervousness. Too many table scraps and dog treats also add to the problem. One large Milk Bone contains just over 100 calories, so you can see how your dog could add 200, 300, 500 or more calories to its daily diet just by being fed treats in addition to its regular food. It's very similar to grabbing that handful of potato chips or peanuts on top of your regular meals.

The most effective and easiest way to manage obesity is with dietary restriction. You are in control of your pet's food bowl! Cutting way back on or completely cutting out "treats" is a good way to start. You don't need to totally deprive your dog. Breaking small Milk Bones in half (even if you have a huge Basset) and making a big deal out of the treat will be just as satisfying to your dog as handing over several of the large Milk Bones. Be sure that all members in the household are following the same plan for your dog. Cut out all table scraps, and if your dog has more than a little weight to lose, switch to a diet dog food. There are several brands available. Most of the diet foods have feeding guidelines on the back of the bag, or ask your vet for assistance. It is a good idea to regularly weigh your dog and to keep track of the weight loss on a calendar. No matter how fat your dog is, a slow weight loss is the goal---aim for 2 to 3 pounds a month (for the average Basset).

Exercise is also important. Since overweight dogs obviously aren't in peak form, you will need to start with short walks. Gradually increase the distance as your dog becomes more fit and able to exercise. If your dog likes to play fetch, spend a few minutes doing it each day---it will be fun for both of you! Start your program today so your dog can start enjoying the benefits of being fit and healthy.

Lisa VandeBerg, DVM