How to Help an Overweight Dog Lose Weight
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Extra weight shortens your dog's life and strains their joints. Here's a safe, effective plan to help them slim down.
Why it matters
Over half of dogs are overweight, which raises the risk of arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease — and can shorten lifespan by years. The good news: dogs respond quickly to the right plan.
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Measure and reduce portions
Stop free-feeding and measure meals precisely. Ask your vet for a target weight and daily calorie amount. Cut treats to under 10% of calories, and swap high-calorie treats for veggies like green beans or carrots.
Increase exercise gradually
Build up daily walks and active play. Start slow for very overweight or older dogs to protect their joints, and increase as fitness improves. Joint support like [Cosequin](/products/cosequin-ds-plus-msm-joint-supplement) helps arthritic dogs stay active comfortably.
Track and stay consistent
Weigh your dog regularly and adjust. Aim for slow, steady loss — crash diets are unsafe. Work with your vet, who can rule out conditions like hypothyroidism and confirm a healthy pace.
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Frequently asked
- How do I know if my dog is overweight?
- You should easily feel the ribs and see a waist from above. If not, your dog is likely overweight — ask your vet for a body condition assessment.
- How fast should a dog lose weight?
- Slow and steady — typically 1–2% of body weight per week. Rapid weight loss can be dangerous, so work with your vet on a safe plan.