2026-01-22 11:09:16
Over half of the dogs in Britain are overweight.
A survey of 2,000 pet owners conducted by pet food brand Bella+Duke has revealed that 48 per cent of pooches in the UK are overweight and that an additional six per cent are obese.
It was also discovered that a third (33 per cent) of dog owners have no idea how much their canine should weigh while 40 per cent feed their dogs food from their own plate.
Dr Brendan Clarke, Chief Veterinary Advisor at Bella+Duke, said: “It’s amazing to see how many owners are genuinely worried about their pet’s weight yet often don’t realise that everyday feeding habits have a huge impact on their wellbeing.
“From sharing of leftovers to feeding pet foods that can contain excess carb calories, it’s easy for weight gain to creep in.
“Paying closer attention to ingredients and choosing fresher, nutrient dense and protein rich diets, alongside cutting back on leftovers, can make a real difference to a pet’s long-term health.”
Dr Clarke has a series of tips for those whose pooches are overweight and urged them to tailor fitness regimes to their dogs’ needs.
He said: “Focus on activities that suit your pet’s specific age, breed and size. While dogs might need daily walks or fetch sessions to maintain muscle and joint health, cats can thrive with climbing posts and interactive laser games.”
The expert explained how a dog’s oral health can be a telltale sign as to whether their diet is correct.
He said: “Gnawing on appropriate items, like raw meaty bones, provides a ‘hassle factor’ that naturally helps clean teeth and gums while providing excellent material and enrichment.
“Choosing the right diet will also help with this, avoiding foods that have excess carbohydrates and opting for nutrient dense, protein rich meals.”
Dr Clarke also advised pet owners to recognise that their dogs’ exercise needs will change as they get older.
He said: “Keeping them moving with gentle, low-impact exercise and scheduling more frequent health checks can help them maintain their vitality and age gracefully.
“Providing a diet that supports joint health and includes the right balance of omega 3s for cognitive function helps them stay healthy as they grow older.”
Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)
