07/24/2026
How Do I Know If My Dog is Overweight?
Before starting a weight-loss plan, it’s important to determine whether your dog is actually overweight. Many pet owners don’t realize their dog is carrying excess weight because gradual weight gain can be hard to notice.
Veterinarians commonly use a body condition score (BCS) to assess whether a dog is underweight, at an ideal weight, or overweight.
Signs your dog may be overweight include:
• Ribs that are difficult to feel under a layer of fat
• A waist that is not visible when viewed from above
• A rounded abdomen instead of a tucked waistline
• Reduced stamina or reluctance to exercise
Your veterinarian can help evaluate your dog’s body condition score and determine whether weight loss is necessary.
Talk to Your Veterinarian Before Starting a Weight Loss Plan
Before starting any weight loss program for your dog, consult your veterinarian. They can provide a comprehensive health assessment to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your dog’s weight gain. Your veterinarian also can recommend a target weight and a customized plan to help your dog lose weight.
Adjust Your Dog’s Diet and Portion Sizes
Overfeeding is a common cause of weight gain in dogs. Use a measuring cup to feed your dog the correct portion size based on their ideal weight—not their current weight. Keep in mind that the feeding guidelines on package labels are meant as a starting point, and you should expect to make adjustments according to your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Treats can add a significant number of calories to your dog’s diet. Limit your pet’s treats and choose low-calorie options. Consider using vegetables like carrots or green beans, which are packed with health benefits and low in calories, as treats.
Increase Exercise and Daily Activity
Regular walks are a great way to help your dog burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. Aim to walk at least 30 minutes each day, but adjust the duration based on your dog’s fitness level and breed. Increase the speed if appropriate for you and your canine companion, or let your dog run free in a large fenced-in area.
Provide extra exercise opportunities with more playtime, such as fetch, tug-of-war, or playing with toys, to your dog’s routine. Playtime not only helps your dog lose weight, but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Additionally, consider agility training, which can provide your dog fun and effective exercise. Set up an obstacle course in your backyard or join a local agility class for new and exciting activities for your dog.
Track Your Dog’s Weight and Body Condition Score
Keep track of your dog’s weight by weighing them regularly. This can help you monitor their progress and adjust their diet and exercise routine as necessary.
You can more accurately determine if your dog’s weight is healthy by using a body condition score (BCS) chart. A BCS chart helps you evaluate whether your dog is underweight, overweight, or at an ideal weight.
Stay Consistent with Your Dog’s Weight Loss Plan
Consistency is key to successfully helping your dog lose weight. Stick to the feeding and exercise plan, and don’t give in to your pet’s begging or feed them table scraps. This may be challenging at first, but consistency will yield the best results in the long run.
Use Puzzle Feeders and Slow Feeders
Use puzzle toys that force your dog to work for their meals and use their mind and body as they eat. Food puzzles, silicone mats, and slow-feeding bowls can encourage your pet to focus on their food and help them feel full.
Source: AAHA
