16/10/2026
How do we work out how much weight an overweight dog should lose?
⚖️ Step 1: Estimate their ideal body weight
Using the 9-point Body Condition Score (BCS) system, each point above 5 represents approximately 10% excess body weight.
Vito started at 34.7 kg with a BCS of 8/9, meaning he’s approximately 30% overweight!
34.7 kg ÷ 1.3 = 26.7 kg estimated ideal weight
🎯 Step 2: Set a realistic goal
Our initial goal weight doesn’t necessarily need to be the ideal weight. For significantly overweight dogs, even modest weight loss can improve mobility, reduce joint loading and benefit overall health.
Setting smaller, achievable milestones can make long-term weight management more manageable and rewarding 🧡
🥕 Step 3: Calculate calories
We estimate the maintenance energy requirement (MER) for the dog’s ideal body weight and use approximately 80% of this as a starting calorie allowance.
📉 Step 4: Aim for gradual weight loss
For dogs, we generally aim for 1 - 2% of their starting body weight per week.
For Vito, that’s around 350 - 700 g per week.
Losing weight too quickly can increase the risk of losing muscle alongside fat, so a gradual, sustainable approach is important, particularly for senior dogs.
📊 Step 5: Monitor and adjust
Weigh every 1 - 2 weeks and adjust calorie intake as needed to achieve the desired rate of weight loss.
Vito is currently enjoying a combination of Lyka and homemade meals, with his intake carefully managed to support healthy weight loss.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on his progress and cheering him on! 🥳
Stay tuned for updates on Vito’s journey! 🐾
Also, please keep in mind that weight-loss plans should be individualised with veterinary guidance, particularly for senior dogs or those with other health conditions. Thanks Dr Becca 💖 Veterinary Nutrition Group
