Have you ever been told by your veterinarian that your dog needs to lose some weight? Some pet parents count the calories, cut out treats and increase exercise only to watch the scale move the wrong way. Just like in humans, a dog's metabolism can be too slow, sabotaging your weight loss efforts for your pup.
Wondering how your dog's metabolism works? Here are the basics of weight management for dogs.
Metabolism is the body's complex process of converting food into usable energy. This process involves the interaction of the digestive system, the endocrine system, the muscles and the nervous system. Even if you are just sleeping or sitting on the couch watching TV, your body needs energy to power your ability to breathe, pump blood and digest. Did you know that 5 to 15 percent of the energy you expend every day, according to Discover Magazine, goes toward digesting the food you just ate?
The number of calories needed to power all these background functions is called the basal metabolic rate, or resting energy requirement. When you add in physical activity, the body's caloric requirement goes up. Your dog's metabolism works the same way.
There are many factors that can affect a dog's metabolism. As dogs age, their amount of muscle mass tends to slowly decrease. If an older dog has osteoarthritis that makes it painful for them to walk or run, then he may exercise less, which can also contribute to muscle loss. Muscles are the main driver of metabolism — healthy, strong muscles are necessary to keep up a healthy metabolic rate. If a dog isn't burning as many calories, it then makes it easier for older dogs to pack on the pounds.
While obesity doesn't specifically lower a dog's metabolism, canine obesity is a big problem across the globe. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 56 percent of U.S. dogs are overweight. Obesity combined with muscle loss can lead to a lowered metabolic rate that will require your vet's help to correct.
Dog metabolism can also be affected by hormonal disorders. Cushing's disease affects the pituitary and adrenal glands and causes elevated levels of the hormone cortisol, according to PetCareRx. Dogs with Cushing's disease tend to have an increased appetite and a lower metabolic rate, making it difficult to help them lose weight without treatment.
Hypothyroidism is another hormonal disorder that lowers the metabolic rate. Just like dogs with Cushing's, hypothyroid dogs tend to be overweight. Hypothyroid dogs, however, often gain weight despite having a regular or decreased appetite.
Genetics also plays a role in your dog's overall metabolic rate just as it does in humans. Dogs that are predisposed to slower metabolic rates will have a harder time burning off the calories that they intake, which means treats and table scraps can pack on serious pounds, possibly causing a host of other health concerns for your pup. Your dog's metabolic rate can simply be passed down from your dog's parent's similar to genetic diseases can. Genetics also are a factor when combined with your dog's breed. It's important to talk to your veterinarian to understand the weight level your dog should be at in order to know how to best maintain a healthy weight and metabolism.
Senior dogs, overweight dogs and dogs with hormonal conditions that negatively impact their metabolism can benefit greatly from tailored nutrition, including weight management dog food. A meal plan that is lower in calories and higher in fiber can help rev the metabolic engine. Restricting calories is important, but effective fat and weight loss still requires adequate nutrients for the maintenance of muscle tissues, healthy functioning of organs and to fuel the pet’s metabolism. It is important to work with a veterinarian to select the right weight management food and for customized feeding recommendations to help get your pet to an ideal body weight and healthy body composition. Your veterinarian can also help you work through problems that can arise during the weight loss journey such as begging and surfing the kitchen counter for snacks.
Proper nutrition (and not excess treats or human food snacks) combined with regular exercise is important to establishing a healthy metabolism in your dog. If you have tried all of the exercise and proper portion control and your pup is still struggling to get to a healthy weight, you might talk to your vet about a therapeutic dog food specially formulated to work with your dog's metabolism to keep them at a healthy weight.
A healthy body weight is one of the most important factors that determine your dog's longevity and quality of life. You can help them maintain a healthy metabolism with proper food, exercise and regular vet checkups. If you think your dog may have a sluggish metabolism, make an appointment to talk with your vet about ways to improve it. Your vet can identify any conditions that may be sabotaging your weight loss efforts and advise you on the best weight control regimen.
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists, Dr. Wooten divides her professional time between small animal practice in Greeley, Colorado, public speaking on associate issues, leadership, and client communication, and writing. She enjoys camping with her family, skiing, SCUBA, and participating in triathlons.
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws dry dog food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Supports lean muscle for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Supports controlled bone & joint growth. Promotes healthy brain, eye, muscle & immune system development
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws 7+ dry dog food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Are you paying enough attention to dog oral care? Learn some great ways to keep your dog's teeth & gums healthy, including a guide for brushing his teeth.
Find out if you can feed your dog spicy food or add some spicy flavor to his dog food, and any health implications of doing so.
Does your dog really like to be petted? Learn the best spots to pet a dog, especially for new puppy owners, as well as areas to avoid when petting.
Explore some of the many small dog breeds that don't shed, why they can be better for people with allergies, and which breeds could fit your lifestyle.
Learn what to do if your dog is experiencing constipation or an inability to pee. If he isn't going at least twice a day, learn what steps you should take.
Learn how to manage your male puppy around female dogs in season, as you will begin to notice changes in your puppy.
Learn expert tips on the best ways to walk your large breed dog, including training suggestions, which equipment works best, and how to walk multiple dogs.
Learn helpful information about yeast infections in dogs (in both ears & skin), including signs of the condition, causes, treatments and prevention tips.
Discover tips for enjoying a bike ride with your dog: How to decide if your dog is a good fit, planning the first ride, items to bring along & safety tips.
Learn the physical signs that your dog is stressed, such as changes in appetite or increased urination, common causes of stress and tips for stress relief.
Constant halitosis, or bad breath in dogs can be a sign of health problems. By understanding the causes, you can tame the odor and enjoy more puppy kisses.
Are you wondering if dogs really are color blind? Get the scoop on which colors your dog can actually see and which ones should catch his attention.
A deaf dog may now live a quieter life, but he's still the active, loving pup you once knew! Discover how to care for and communicate with your dog.
Adopting a senior dog from a rescue shelter might seem like more work than reward, but it actually lets you better choose a dog for your lifestyle.
Learn about the rules for house training your puppy, preventing your puppy from starting any bad habits, how to keep a schedule and rewarding good behavior.
Can Dogs Get Hiccups?
Discover tips for cleaning your dog's favorite toys (both plush & chew toys) and why keeping them clean can be important for their health.
Learn how to spot signs that your dog might have a broken leg, tips for transporting him to the vet and how you can help him recover after treatment.
Learn how to make a DIY dog obstacle course at home with items you already own. Follow these instructions and you & your pup will be training in no time!
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool