Did you know that more than half of all dogs today are overweight? A dog is considered overweight when it weighs about 10 to 20% more than its ideal weight and obese if it is over 30% above what's healthy.

Being an overweight dog might not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to serious health problems. Dog Obesity poses a higher risk for conditions like diabetes, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease. These illnesses can develop or worsen because of the added stress that excess weight puts on the body.

Beyond the physical risks, carrying animal obesity can affect your dog's energy, mood, and overall quality of life. It can even shorten their lifespan. The good news is that you can make a big difference in your dog's health with a few lifestyle changes. A balanced diet, regular exercise,  at least an hour of walking,   and supportive supplements—such as probiotics for digestion and CBD oil for inflammation—can help your dog safely lose weight and stay healthy. Taking simple steps now can lead to a happier, healthier life for your obese dog.

Related: Common Dog Diseases and Health Issues

What is Dog Obesity?

Obesity in dogs happens when a dog's body weight is more than 30% above what is considered healthy for their breed and size. This extra dog weight comes from the buildup of fat, also known as white adipose tissue. While many people may think of fat dogs as cute, carrying too much weight can be harmful.

Experts warn that Dog Obesity is becoming more common around the world and is a growing concern for both veterinarians and pet parents. Although obesity itself isn't a disease, it can lead to or worsen many serious health issues. These include joint problems like arthritis, heart and breathing difficulties, diabetes, skin conditions, and even an increased risk during surgeries.

In some cases, the weight gain for dogs may not be just from overeating or lack of exercise—it can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism). That's why it's essential to work with your vet to understand the cause of the weight gain and create a safe, effective plan to help your pup get back to a healthy dog weight .

Common Causes of Dog Obesity

• Overfeeding: Giving your dog too much food, frequent treats, or table scraps can lead to weight gain.

• Lack of Exercise: Dogs that don't get enough physical activity don't burn off the calories they eat, which leads to extra pounds.

• Genetics: Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, are more likely to gain weight due to their genetic makeup.

• Age: Older dogs (especially over 5 years old) tend to slow down and burn fewer calories, making obesity in animals more likely.

• Spaying/Neutering: Hormonal changes after spaying or neutering can lower a dog's energy levels and increase appetite.

• Health Conditions: Diseases like hypothyroidism, insulinoma, and Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) can make dogs more likely to gain weight.

• Medications: Some drugs, like corticosteroids and phenobarbital, can increase appetite or cause fat to build up in the body.

The risks posed by obese dogs 

Diabetes

Dog diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects how your dog's body manages sugar (glucose) in the bloodstream. When a dog has diabetes, their blood sugar levels become too high, which can cause damage to important organs like the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and blood vessels over time.

One of the biggest risk factors for diabetes in dogs is obesity. In fact, studies have shown that poor diet and lack of exercise in an overweight dog play a significant role in increasing the chances of a dog developing diabetes. While diabetes can't always be prevented entirely, there are steps you can take to lower the risk.

Helping your dog maintain a healthy body weight through proper nutrition and regular physical activity is one of the best ways to protect them. Additionally, spaying female dogs has been shown to reduce their chances of developing diabetes later in life. By staying proactive with your dog's health, you can help them live a longer, healthier life free from the complications of diabetes.

Arthritis

Arthritis in dogs is a slow-moving but painful condition that affects their joints. Over time, the natural wear and tear on their joints can lead to inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort, making it harder for your pup to enjoy walks, playtime, or even just getting up and down. It's a progressive issue, meaning it tends to get worse without proper care.

One of the biggest contributors to arthritis is extra body weight. Research shows that dogs who carry more weight than they should are much more likely to develop joint problems. That added dog weight puts pressure on their joints every time they move, speeding up the damage.

The good news? While arthritis can't always be avoided, you can absolutely take steps to help your dog stay more comfortable for longer. Keeping their weight in a healthy range, staying active with low-impact exercises like swimming or gentle walks, and adding joint-friendly supplements to their routine can all help slow things down. These simple lifestyle habits can go a long way in keeping your dog mobile, happy, and feeling their best.

Cancer

Cancer in dogs is a serious condition that starts when cells in the body stop behaving normally and begin to grow out of control. It can show up in almost any organ or tissue, and if not caught early, it can be life-threatening.

One often overlooked contributor to cancer in dogs is Dog Obesity. Obesity causes ongoing, low-level inflammation in the body, which creates an environment where cancer has a better chance of developing and spreading.

The best way to help protect your dog is by focusing on everyday healthy habits. This means feeding a well-balanced diet, keeping your dog active with daily walks or playtime, and managing their weight to keep them in a healthy range. It's also smart to reduce their exposure to harmful substances like household chemicals or smoke, which are known to raise cancer risk.

Taking these steps won't guarantee your dog stays cancer-free, but they can go a long way in boosting their health and reducing the risks. Small, consistent choices really do make a big difference.

Heart Disease

Heart disease in dogs is a broad term that covers several different heart-related conditions. While some heart issues may be caused by age, genetics, or other health problems, extra body weight is a major risk factor. When a dog becomes overweight or obese, it puts extra pressure on the heart and blood vessels, making it harder for the body to function properly. In fact, obesity can lead to changes in how a dog's heart is structured and how well it works.

Although heart disease in dogs isn't always preventable, there are ways to reduce the risk. Feeding your dog a healthy, balanced diet, making sure they get regular exercise, managing their weight, and scheduling routine vet checkups are all important steps. These habits can help keep your dog's heart strong and support their overall health for years to come.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease in dogs happens when their kidneys can't function the way they're supposed to. These vital organs are in charge of filtering waste and balancing fluids in the body. When they start to break down, waste builds up and can eventually lead to kidney failure, which is a serious and life-threatening condition.

There's no single cause of kidney disease—it can develop for many reasons, and in many cases, it can't be fully prevented. However, one factor that plays a significant role is Dog Obesity. Extra body weight can place added pressure on a dog's kidneys, leading to changes in how they work. The encouraging part? Research shows that these changes can be reversed with weight loss. Helping your dog stay at a healthy weight not only supports kidney health but also improves their overall quality of life.

How Can CBD Oil Help Treat Dog Obesity?

CBD oil can be a helpful natural supplement when managing your dog's weight. It supports weight loss in a few different ways. First, it can help regulate your dog's appetite and metabolism—two important factors in burning fat and maintaining a healthy body weight. When your dog's metabolism works efficiently, it becomes easier for their body to use up stored fat as energy.

Research also suggests that CBD has anti-obesity properties. It may help reduce the buildup of fat cells in the body while supporting overall metabolic health. But CBD doesn't just help directly—it also works in ways that support better weight management indirectly. For example, overweight dogs often struggle with joint pain and inflammation, which can make it hard for them to stay active. CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, making it easier for your dog to move around and get regular exercise.

Additionally, CBD may help improve your dog's mood and reduce stress, which can affect eating habits. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels—an important part of preventing sudden hunger spikes and maintaining a balanced diet. CBD oil can be a valuable tool in helping your dog reach and maintain a healthier weight when used alongside the best dog food to lose weight and exercise.

Conclusion

Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for their overall well-being. A balanced diet, regular exercise, at least an hour of walking, and the right supplements can make a big difference. CBD oil is a natural option that may support weight loss by improving metabolism, reducing pain, and boosting mobility. Always talk to your vet before starting any new supplement for Dog Obesity to make sure it's the right fit for your furry friend. With the right care, your dog can live a happier, healthier, and more active life.