Overweight bulldog resting on a couch – time to start a healthy weight loss journey

Is Your Dog Overweight? 5 Easy Ways to Help Your Pup Get Back in Shape

📊 Why Dog Obesity Is a Real Problem

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over 59% of dogs in the U.S. are classified as overweight or obese.
Extra weight isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and even a shorter lifespan.

Veterinarians use a 9-point Body Condition Score (BCS) to assess body fat. If your dog scores above 5, they’re likely overweight. Scores of 7 to 9 indicate obesity.

🐶 How to Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight

Check for these signs:

  • You can't feel their ribs easily

  • No clear waist from above

  • Tired after short walks

  • Panting or breathing hard with little activity

  • Avoids stairs or jumping

If your dog shows two or more of these signs, it’s time to take action.

✅ 5 Practical Dog Weight Loss Tips That Work

1. Use a Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

Dogs that eat too fast often overeat. A slow feeder bowl helps them slow down, eat less, and feel full sooner.

Customer Review:

"My dog used to inhale food in 20 seconds. With this bowl, he chews properly now."

2. Cut Back on Treats and Scraps

Even a few table scraps can add hundreds of calories. Stick to low-calorie training treats and avoid feeding from your plate.

3. Add Daily Walks and Play Sessions

Dogs need at least 15 minutes of moderate exercise daily. A short walk, fetch, or tug-of-war can help them burn calories and build muscle.

4. Try Dog Fitness Toys

Interactive toys are a great way to sneak in more movement and mental stimulation.
👉 Explore Fitness Toys at Furlovers

Customer Review:

"Adding fitness toys from Furlovers made playtime fun again. My dog moves more and looks leaner!"

5. Talk to Your Vet About a Plan

Your vet can suggest portion sizes, weight loss food, or check for medical causes. Weight loss should be slow and steady—not drastic.

🧠 FAQ: Common Questions About Dog Weight

Q: How do I know if my dog is obese or just fluffy?
Try gently feeling their ribs. If you can’t feel them without pressing, or their waistline disappears, they’re probably overweight.

Q: Are some breeds more prone to weight gain?
Yes. Labs, Beagles, Dachshunds, Bulldogs, and older small breeds gain weight easily. They often need stricter food control.

Q: Does neutering make dogs gain weight?
It can. Hormonal changes can reduce metabolism and activity. After neutering, portion sizes may need to be adjusted.

🐕 Trusted Tools from Furlovers

Here are our best-selling products for weight control:

  • Maze Slow Feeder Bowl
    Slows down eating to reduce bloating and overeating

  • Fitness Toy Starter Pack
    Includes tug toys, rope toys, and fetch tools that encourage active play

Every product is designed to help your dog build healthier habits—naturally and safely.

✅ Final Takeaway

Ready to help your overweight dog live a longer, healthier life?
Take the first step today with our slow feeders and expert-selected fitness toys at Furlovers.
Let’s make wellness a daily habit—because every dog deserves to feel their best.

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