Pure love for your dog

Don't give overweight a chance

Quick test at home

Have you ever thought about whether your dog is suffering from overweight? Through consultations with hundreds of pet owners regarding the optimal nutrition for their dogs, I learned one thing: many have enormous difficulties recognizing this.

The numerous discussions have shown that most dog owners are uncertain about this topic. They complain that it is difficult to obtain clear information.

And indeed, this is true: if you search for the ideal weight of a specific dog breed (the same applies to cats), you receive "From-To" indications. The same goes for feeding recommendations. Clear statements are often lacking.

And this is logical: no dog is the same. Body structure, activity, and metabolism vary for each animal. Therefore, information about ideal weight and proper feeding amounts can only ever be average values.

And that’s the problem: for a muscular and active dog, value "X" may be perfect, while for a calmer companion, that same value may simply be too much.

Weight control is pure love for animals

Unfortunately, a very sad truth lies behind this: two-thirds of all dogs suffer from overweight or obesity.

These are not just numbers on a scale. Experts in animal health agree that even a few extra kilos can lead to serious health problems.

80% of affected dogs suffer from:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• High blood pressure
• Kidney Diseases
• Cancer

This not only significantly reduces the quality of life of our four-legged friends but usually also shortens their lifespan. Let’s work together to ensure this doesn’t happen!

Quick test at home

To prevent your dog from being affected, incorporate a regular check of their body structure and weight into your daily routine. A monthly rhythm works best. This quick test will help you react promptly if your fluffy friend has eaten too much.

It’s very simple!

Rib check

Gently run your hand along the side of your dog. If you can easily feel their ribs without hitting a thick layer of fat, that's a positive sign! A thin layer of fat should cover their ribs but should not be visible.

Waist check

Look down at your pet from above. A healthy waist that narrows between the ribs and hips is a really good sign. If this shape is not visible, it’s time to take a closer look at their diet!

Belly test

Examine them from the side. A healthy belly has a gentle upward curve or is slightly tucked in. If it hangs down, that could indicate excess pounds.

Weight check

How often do you weigh your little treasure? Weighing regularly is super important! Write down their weight so you don't lose track of it. This way, you can quickly notice any changes.

When to see the veterinarian?

There are two situations in which you should seek advice from a veterinarian:

1. You suspect that your furry friend is overweight.
2. You are sure that there is a weight problem.

Body condition scoring (BCS)

Experts can assess your dog's health using something called Body Condition Scoring (BCS). This is a professional assessment of the body structure of pets. The measurement scale for this assessment ranges from 1 (life-threatening underweight) to 9 (dangerous overweight). A healthy score is between 4 and 5 – where muscle and body fat are in balance.

Conclusion

Incorporate regular checks of your dog's body structure and weight into your routine to avoid overweight. This actively contributes to their health and happiness.

If you’re unsure, please talk to your veterinarian and seek advice on how to best ensure your furry friend's ideal weight.

Do you have any questions? Or ideas for us? Feel free to share them in the comments! Fellow dog lovers will thank you. Together, we can raise awareness about the health of our beloved companions.

XO

Sabine 💕

„United for Happy Pet Lives!”