Pet obesity is a growing problem for even the most attentive pet parents, and it comes with an array of concerns. Overweight dogs are at increased risk of health problems, including osteoarthritis and diabetes. Unhealthy body condition can also impact quality of life. Helping your dog stay healthy starts with recognizing the issue and understanding how to help your dog lose weight with tools like weight reduction dog food.

Your veterinarian is an invaluable resource through this journey, so work closely with them to help your dog achieve a healthy weight.

Why Weight Matters

While a pudgy pooch might look cute, extra weight stresses bones and joints and increases the risk of various health conditions, including:

  • Diabetes

  • High blood pressure

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Heart and respiratory disease

  • Cancer

  • Skin problems

Research shows overweight dogs are more likely to have a shorter life expectancy than those with an ideal body weight.

obese dog sitting and panting

How to Help an Overweight Dog Lose Weight

Thankfully, you can make a few lifestyle adjustments for your dog to help them get back to a healthy weight.

Check In With Your Vet

Working with your veterinarian is critical to creating a comprehensive plan for safe, effective weight loss. So, schedule an appointment to talk about your dog's weight. They can assess whether your dog is overweight, what their ideal weight is, how many calories to feed them every day and — if everything goes according to plan — how long it will take them to lose weight.

Your vet can also recommend a complete and balanced dog food for weight loss and rule out any health conditions that may contribute to weight gain or slow progress. If your dog has arthritis, they can help manage discomfort to make exercise easier for your pup. Your vet can track your dog's progress at in-office appointments, help you celebrate milestones and cheer you on. They can also show you how to set up a weight loss journal so you can monitor weight loss at home.

Get Moving

Dogs need adequate physical exercise for both their mental and physical health. A consistent, daily exercise routine that suits your dog's breed, size and age can help them shed excess weight and prevent gradual weight gain. In addition, it can help them sleep better, improve their mood, strengthen their bones and muscles and support their metabolism. It can do the same for you if you exercise alongside them, so it's a win-win!

Choose something you know you can do every day, like walking. Then, switch it up with other activities to keep things interesting, such as:

Control Calories

To lose weight, dogs need to burn more calories than they consume. However, if you simply feed your dog less of their regular food, the nutrient to calorie ratio may be imbalanced and lead to malnutrition over time. The goal is to reduce calories while keeping all other nutrients balanced.

Here are some tips for healthy calorie control:

  • Weigh the food on a gram scale (this is more accurate than measuring cups).

  • Ask your vet about low-calorie treat options.

  • Talk to your vet about therapeutic nutrition options to support weight management.

Therapeutic nutrition to support weight management contains fewer calories while retaining all the important macro- and micronutrients. Some formulas may also include ingredients that increase fat burning, like L-carnitine. Your veterinarian can help you choose a food that meets your dog's needs.

Get Everyone on the Same Page

Weight loss programs can be easily disrupted if people sneak-treat your dog. It's hard to resist those puppy eyes, but if your dog needs to lose weight to stay healthy, everyone in the household needs to be on board — even grandma. Try holding a short meeting to explain the goal and the consequences of giving your dog excess food or treats.

Dog playing with ball

Overfeeding Doesn't Equal Love

Remember: Your dog doesn't think or feel that you love them any less when you feed them smaller meals or fewer treats. An overweight dog generally isn't a healthy or happy dog. Substitute the fun you have sharing snacks with extra play and pets instead.

If you're having trouble helping your dog reach a healthy weight, contact your vet. Every dog loses weight differently, and working with a veterinary professional can keep you both on the right track so you can enjoy a healthy, happy life together.

FAQ

How long does it take for a dog to lose weight?

If you follow your vet's nutrition and exercise plan, most healthy dogs can start slowly losing weight right away. The time it takes to achieve their goal weight depends on several factors, including how much weight your dog has to lose, how strictly you stick to the weight loss plan, your dog's age and reproductive status, and any health conditions that can affect weight loss, such as hormonal disorders.

What can I feed my overweight dog to lose weight?

A dog food for weight loss contains the proper amount of complete and balanced nutrition with fewer calories. Weight reduction dog food (dog food formulated to support weight management) works to boost metabolism and burn fat while preserving nutrient balance. Your vet can recommend a formula that meets your dog's needs.

How much should I feed my dog to lose weight?

In general, the amount you feed your dog should target a 1% to 2% loss in body weight per week. Most folks can help their dog lose weight by reducing their daily portion by 25% to 30%. Ask your veterinarian how much to feed your dog to achieve healthy weight loss, as reducing food too quickly can be harmful.

Dr. Sarah Wooten Dr. Sarah Wooten

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.