Obesity in senior dogs
As dogs get older, carrying excess weight can be both more common, and more of a concern. Obesity in senior dogs (typically age 10 and over) often has different causes than in younger dogs so needs careful management to keep your dog as healthy as possible.
An estimated 65% of dogs in the UK are obese. This excess body fat can negatively affect a dog’s health in many hidden ways, and they’re at higher risk as they get older. Not only are obese dogs proven to have shorter lifespans, but obesity can cause or contribute to wider health issues, such as:
- Chronic inflammation
- Joint problems
- Airway disease
- Diabetes
- Skin problems
- Pancreatitis
- Incontinence
- Heat stroke
Signing up for our Healthy Pet Club is a great way of making sure you stay on top of your dog’s weight and any wider health concerns, with regular consultations and specially created healthcare plans.
How to know if your dog is obese
Older dogs typically have less energy and are unwilling or unable to go for long walks. They’re less playful, and of course, they look different to how they looked six to 12 months ago.
The number on the scales doesn’t mean very much, as is depends on the breed, but we assess the Body Conditioning Score (BCS), this involves feeling the amount of fat tissue over the ribs and pelvis. If your dog scores between six and nine, they’re considered overweight.
If you’re concerned your older dog is overweight and needs help, book an appointment at your local vet for a full assessment.
Understanding why your older dog is obese
If your senior dog was a healthy weight when they were younger but has now gained weight, there may be a medical reason for this.
Arthritis is very common in older dogs, and the joint pain this causes can have a huge impact on your dog’s activity levels. Even if they're going for the same length walks, swapping running round off lead for walking next to you can be a big change in energy used.
Some medical conditions can also cause weight gain or changes in appearance, such as an underactive thyroid or Cushing’s disease. These may have other symptoms and typically need blood tests to diagnose.
How to manage obesity in older dogs
There are several changes you can make to help your older dog lose weight and keep them healthier for longer.
If your dog has a medical condition, this will need treating in addition to any other recommended changes. If your dog has arthritis but is overweight, pain relief to help them move more comfortably is likely to be a key part of their treatment plan. Your vet will be able to advise further.
Here are our top five tips for managing obesity in older dogs:
1. Walk more
Increasing your senior dog’s daily exercise is an easy way to make sure your dog is burning more fat. If staying out for longer aim to increase walk length by up to a third. Sometimes adding an extra short walk is easier than staying out longer. This also allows older dogs to rest in between walks, so they are likely to be more active when they do go out. This approach is better for pets with arthritis who may not be able to walk far.
2. Play with them more
Keeping them moving, even at home, increases their metabolic rate. Avoid high impact activity, such as fast ball throwing, as this can put too much pressure on older bones and joints. And remember, never throw sticks as these can cause serious injuries.
3. Make them work for their food
This means they’re burning calories before they eat. You can invest in slow feeders, puzzle balls and KONG toys to slow down mealtimes.
4. Reduce how much they are fed
Ultimately weight loss happens when the calories going in are less than the energy being used. Overweight dogs are all likely to need a change or reduction in their diet, which should include stopping any treats or human food.
5. Consider complementary therapies
Therapies such as hydrotherapy or physiotherapy help to build muscle, supporting joints and making exercise easier. These are particularly helpful for dogs with mobility issues such as arthritis. Acupuncture can be a helpful option for dogs needing extra pain relief.