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Chubby puppies might be adorable, but when it comes to a dog's well-being, a lean physique is preferable.

Unfortunately, similar to the issue faced by humans, there's an alarming number of overweight dogs, as reported by the Association For Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). In their eighth annual survey, released in March 2015, APOP revealed that 53 percent of American dogs are carrying excess weight.

International studies also indicate that this problem extends globally, with surveys from various regions showing canine obesity rates at around 40 percent or higher. Furthermore, most researchers believe that this health concern is worsening year by year. According to another part of the APOP survey, in 2014, 17.6 percent of dogs were classified as clinically obese, meaning they were 30 percent or more overweight. This marked a full percentage point increase from just one year prior.

What's even more concerning is that a staggering 95 percent of pet owners are unaware that their pudgy dogs need to shed some weight. APOP dubs this phenomenon the "fat pet gap," where an overweight dog is mistakenly perceived as having a normal weight.

Dr. Ernie Ward, a veterinarian and the founder of APOP, emphasizes, "Pet owners often believe that their obese dog or cat is at a healthy weight, which makes addressing obesity a challenging task. Nobody wants to acknowledge that their pet is carrying extra pounds, and our initial hurdle is overcoming this denial."

When it comes to pets, like dogs, recognizing if they are overweight or obese depends on both how they look and feel. You should be able to feel your dog's ribs when you gently touch their sides. Some dog food brands have charts that can help you figure out if your dog needs to lose weight.

Sometimes, a pet's breed and age can affect their weight. Older pets, for example, may be less active due to conditions like arthritis. But it's our job to give them the right amount of food and make sure they get regular exercise.

When pets are overweight, they are more likely to:

⦁Have a less active and shorter life

⦁Struggle with heat and humidity

⦁Need more medication due to their weight

⦁Experience joint and mobility problems

⦁Develop skin issues and a weaker immune system

⦁Face higher risks during surgery

⦁Show less interest in exercise and play

⦁Often have high blood pressure

⦁Be at a greater risk of developing diabetes

If you want to help your dog lose weight without making them feel deprived, here are some tips to make it easier:

⦁Cut Down on Treats: Swap fatty treats with healthy ones like carrots or low-calorie dog treats to give your pup nutritious rewards.

⦁Mix Veggies with Kibble: If your dog still seems hungry, add high-fiber veggies like frozen green beans to their meals to help them feel full without extra calories.

⦁No Sneaky Treats: Ensure everyone in your household avoids giving your dog extra food or treats. Small treats can add up, so let them know it's for the dog's health and happiness.

⦁Track Progress Monthly: Keep an eye on your dog's weight by assessing their body condition and doing monthly weigh-ins at the vet's clinic. Vets often offer free weight checks and encouragement to help you along the way.

Embrace the love and barks of your four-legged pals and lend a hand when they require it, for we are also their most loved human. Together, let's make a paw-sitive impact. Explore our earlier posts about dogs and celebrate happy, healthy hounds!