Obesity in Dogs
I am curious about obesity in dogs. I think my pet looks cute being pudgy. My friend says I have a fat dog and that it is not healthy for her. She seems happy, so is it a problem for her to be fat? I was really offended that my “ex-friend” would say that.
Obesity is a serious health condition. It will both shorten your pet’s life and lower her quality of live even though she looks fine now. Hopefully, your friend told you in a kind and helpful way!
You didn’t mention what size a pet she is so we will mention a few health problems for various sizes. The extra weight places more stress on heart, lungs, and joints for all sizes. Toy breeds are more likely to develop a collapsing trachea. Brachycephalic breeds, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, may have significant difficulty breathing, especially when excited or playing.
Obese dogs of any breed are more susceptible to heat stroke. They are predisposed to develop arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease. Arthritis is a very serious, life-threatening disease especially when a large breed dog is so painful that he is not able to get up or go outside to eliminate. Sadly, this situation may end with the dog being euthanized. A recent study conducted on Labrador Retrievers found that those maintained on the skinny side of normal lived two years longer than those that were slightly on the heavier side of normal.
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