Could Your Dog’s Diet Be Secretly Adding Pounds? These Everyday Foods Could Be Making Your Dog Overweight

Rising Pet Obesity Rates Call for Greater Awareness Among Dog Owners

Pet obesity is on the rise, and the numbers are alarming. The most recent available data shows that 65 percent of dogs in the United Kingdom are now overweight, a trend that poses serious health risks such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. 

Angelo Sorbello, pet wellness expert and CEO of Pet Sprint says, “Surprisingly, many of these extra pounds may be coming from the foods we unknowingly share with our beloved pets, making it more important than ever for dog owners to scrutinise what’s really in their dogs’ diets.”

The Critical Role of Diet in Your Dog’s Health

A dog’s diet should be treated as more than just a daily routine—it’s crucial to their overall well-being. “A balanced diet isn’t just about preventing obesity; it’s about providing the nutrients your dog needs to thrive,” says Sorbello. Proper nutrition supports healthy skin, joints, and even your dog’s mood.

However, many common foods can disrupt this balance. High-fat, high-sugar foods may seem harmless but can lead to weight gain and other health issues like respiratory problems and reduced mobility. The key is making informed decisions about what goes into your dog’s bowl.

Is Your Dog Eating These?

It’s easy to overlook how much our dogs are eating, especially when we’re sharing food that seems harmless. But some everyday foods could be contributing significantly to their weight gain:

1. Cheese: Though a favourite treat, cheese is loaded with fat and calories.
2. Bread: While it seems benign, bread is packed with carbohydrates that dogs don’t need.
3. Peanut Butter: Often used as a treat or to hide pills, peanut butter is high in calories and sugar.
4. Cooked Meat Scraps: While lean meat is fine, fatty trimmings and greasy leftovers from your plate can add unnecessary calories.
5. Dog Treats: Even treats marketed for dogs can be calorie bombs if given too frequently.
6. Hot Dogs: Often given as a training treat, hot dogs are extremely calorie-dense.
7. Ice Cream: A sugary and fatty treat that can quickly add to your dog’s daily calorie intake. Additionally, dogs are sensitive to dairy so eating ice cream can cause digestive issues for dogs. 
8. Bacon: High in fat and sodium, bacon can significantly contribute to weight gain.

How Excess Calories Add Up

Angelo Sorbello stresses that dog owners understand the impact of these hidden calories. Here’s how quickly a seemingly harmless treat can push your dog over their calorie limit:

“A Labrador Retriever should typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds and consume about 1,250 to 1,780 calories per day, though these numbers differ slightly for males and females” he explains. “Just one slice of cheese (113 calories) and a slice of bacon (42 calories) can easily add up to 155 calories—nearly 10-13% of their daily intake.” Regularly giving these treats could lead to gradual weight gain.

Sorbello continues, “A small breed like a Chihuahua, which should weigh around 3-6 pounds and consume about 200-300 calories daily, can quickly exceed their calorie limit. For example, a small scoop of ice cream (137 calories) could account for nearly half of their daily calorie needs, making it a significant contributor to weight gain.”

To keep your dog healthy, focus on portion control and choose low-calorie treats like carrots or green beans. Regular exercise is also vital, along with consulting your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s diet meets their specific needs. “A proactive approach to your dog’s diet can prevent many health issues before they start,” says Angelo Sorbello. “It’s about giving your dog the best chance for a long, happy life.”

Raising Awareness for a Healthier Future

“Pet obesity is a growing concern, and it’s one that all dog owners need to be aware of,” says Angelo. When we understand the hidden risks in common foods and make more informed choices, we can help our dogs live longer, healthier lives.