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Obesity in DogsHarvey Caruthers |
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What is obesity?
Obese dogs are
about 20 per cent over their ideal weight. It is difficult to generalise
about how fat individuals are as they come in many shapes. Ideally
a "body condition score" should be applied, comparing body weight relative
to a dog's build. Unfortunately, this sort of subjective assessment
does not work in dogs; neither do other measurements used in humans, such
as estimating the amount of fat stored under the skin.
Which dogs are affected?
Researchers believe that between 28 and 34 per cent of dogs are obese. No data is available to support the obvious observation that working gun dogs are unlikely to fall into this category. While active individuals may retaion excellent body condition, there is likely to be exceptions among, for example, dogs retired from active work or lightly worked family pets exposed to the same risk of overfeeding as their more sedentary counterparts.
What causes obesity?
The main causes are neutering, age and breed. Dogs that have been neutered are twice as likely to be obese, so it is vital to plan for weight control when you neuter. Dogs between five and ten years old are most prone to obesity, possibly reflecting a reduction in calories burned off in exercise. Several popular breeds including Labrador retrievers are often reported as being prone to obesity.
Losing weight and diets
Owners have a strong influence: pets owned by overweight or inactive people are more likely to be obese. A stimulating, active routine with the correct calorie intake and few titbits tends to lead to a healthier dog. For an "average" dog, daily calorie intake can be calculated and, if a diets contents are known, the correct ration given. Medication can help improve joint mobility, which can rapidly worsen in overweight dogs.
Which dogs are affected?
Researchers believe that between 28 and 34 per cent of dogs are obese. No data is available to support the obvious observation that working gun dogs are unlikely to fall into this category. While active individuals may retaion excellent body condition, there is likely to be exceptions among, for example, dogs retired from active work or lightly worked family pets exposed to the same risk of overfeeding as their more sedentary counterparts.
What causes obesity?
The main causes are neutering, age and breed. Dogs that have been neutered are twice as likely to be obese, so it is vital to plan for weight control when you neuter. Dogs between five and ten years old are most prone to obesity, possibly reflecting a reduction in calories burned off in exercise. Several popular breeds including Labrador retrievers are often reported as being prone to obesity.
Losing weight and diets
Owners have a strong influence: pets owned by overweight or inactive people are more likely to be obese. A stimulating, active routine with the correct calorie intake and few titbits tends to lead to a healthier dog. For an "average" dog, daily calorie intake can be calculated and, if a diets contents are known, the correct ration given. Medication can help improve joint mobility, which can rapidly worsen in overweight dogs.
reprinted with kind permission from Alastair Balmain
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.