📉 Vet Guide 2025: Effective Weight Loss in Dogs by Dr Duncan Houston
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📉 Vet Guide 2025: Effective Weight Loss in Dogs by Dr Duncan Houston
Obesity is the most preventable disease in dogs—56% of U.S. dogs in 2020 were overweight or obese, increasing their risk for diabetes, arthritis, cancers, and shortened lifespans. Fortunately, safe weight loss can reverse many of these effects. In this 2025 guide, Dr Duncan Houston outlines how to help your dog lose weight in a healthy, effective, and sustainable way. 🐾
🎯 Step 1: Determine Ideal Body Weight
Begin with a physical exam and Body Condition Score (BCS) on a 9-point scale. Scores of 4–5 are ideal—scores above signal overweight or obesity. Each point above goal approximates 10–15% excess body weight. For example, a BCS of 6 means 10–15% overweight, and a score of 9 suggests 40–60% above ideal weight. Aim for slow, steady loss—1–2% of body weight per week is safe and effective .
🍽️ Step 2: Implement a Feeding Plan
- Meal feeding: Split the daily ration into 2–3 meals for better monitoring.
- Prescription diets: Use veterinarian-recommended weight-loss formulas to ensure nutrient adequacy with fewer calories.
- Treat management: Limit treats to ≤10% of daily calories. Use kibble or low-calorie treats for rewards.
Vet partners will calculate your dog’s daily calorie allowance and suggest reducing current intake by ~15–20% to achieve safe weight loss .
🏃 Step 3: Increase Physical Activity
Boost metabolism naturally. Start with short walks, structured play sessions, fetch, or dog park visits. Maintain these routines once ideal weight is reached for long-term health .
📊 Step 4: Track Progress & Adjust
- Weigh-ins every 2–3 weeks at the vet to track trends and adjust food.
- Monitor appetite, body shape, energy, and stool quality.
- Modify food or exercise pace based on progress—too fast or slow warrants adjustment .
🧭 Veterinary Oversight and Health Checks
Before starting, rule out obesity-causing conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s. A vet visit provides a baseline, with follow-ups to ensure safe and effective weight loss .
🎯 Summary Table: Weight-Loss Program Overview
| Step | Action | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assess body weight & BCS | Determine ideal weight & weekly loss goal (1–2%) |
| 2 | Meal feed balanced diet | Safe calorie deficit without nutrient loss |
| 3 | Increase daily activity | Support fat loss & muscle retention |
| 4 | Monitor & adjust plan | Stay on track—target weekly loss |
| 5 | Regular vet check-ups | Ensure overall health & modify as needed |
📣 Ask A Vet Support
Need personalized help with your dog's weight-loss program, calorie calculations, or exercise ideas? Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet App for expert veterinary guidance 24/7. Let us support your pup’s journey to better health! 📱🐾
✅ Final Thoughts
Obesity in dogs is a serious yet modifiable risk factor for many diseases. By setting clear goals, controlling calories, promoting activity, and working closely with your veterinarian, achieving and maintaining a healthier weight becomes attainable. Together, we can help your dog live a longer, happier life—one pound at a time. 🌟
