Just like humans, dogs can put on weight if they eat too much. Some owners may worry about their beloved pets going hungry and unintentionally overfeed them, leading to health issues. In response, veterinarians have shared their professional opinions on this matter.
According to a report from the UK’s People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) as reported by the British newspaper “Daily Express,” up to 65% of small dogs are overweight. This means these dogs face a higher risk of health problems, such as joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease, which could ultimately shorten their lifespans.
Sean McCormack, Chief Veterinary Officer of Tails.com, emphasized the importance of not treating feeding as just a routine activity in daily life but as a foundation for maintaining a dog’s long-term health. He highlighted that a dog’s nutritional needs vary significantly based on factors like size, age, activity level, metabolism, and overall health condition.
McCormack stressed the importance of customizing diets for dogs to manage weight, digestion, dental health, muscle tone, and reduce the risk of preventable diseases. It is a common misconception that any dog food is suitable for all dogs when, in reality, the situation is much more complex.
For instance, large breed dog food typically contains carefully balanced calcium and phosphorus to support bone development and decrease the risk of hip dysplasia. On the other hand, small breed formulas often have a higher calorie density due to these dogs burning energy at a faster rate.
Puppies have even more complex dietary needs, requiring more frequent feedings to sustain growth. In contrast, most adult dogs are best fed two meals a day, though some with medical conditions or specific requirements may need smaller, more frequent portions.
Sometimes, dog owners overlook clear signs of improper feeding in their pets, with weight gain being a significant danger signal. If a dog appears lethargic, restless, or tires easily, it may be due to overfeeding or providing the wrong type of food. Conversely, malnourished dogs may seem apathetic or lack energy for normal play.
McCormack advised pet owners not to assume that anytime a dog whines or looks at the kitchen cupboard, they are genuinely hungry. Persistent hunger signals in dogs should prompt checking for potential health issues such as diabetes or digestive problems. If no health problems are found, it could be a behavioral issue rather than a nutritional one.
Just as humans should have regular mealtimes, dogs also require structured feeding times. Feeding at the same time each day helps regulate a dog’s appetite and digestion. For active dogs or those burning calories quickly, adjustments to meal sizes can be made, but significant changes should be consulted with a vet first.
To monitor a dog’s health, regular weigh-ins are a simple yet effective method. Veterinarians often teach owners how to perform a body condition score, a quick and practical way to assess whether a pet’s body shape is ideal. Regular body condition assessments aid in detecting problems early on.
Overfeeding often stems from a desire to spoil pets, leading to consequences owners may not want to face. By focusing on portion control, consistent routines, and understanding a dog’s specific needs, owners can help their pets stay in optimal condition, avoiding unnecessary health issues.
As McCormack previously mentioned, while a study in 2022 showed that compared to multiple meals a day, feeding dogs once a day meant less health problems, he recommends feeding dogs twice a day and considering snacks eaten throughout the day.
Biologically, dogs can indeed eat a lot at once occasionally, but this poses health risks like bloating, especially for certain breeds. To ensure dogs are neither constantly hungry nor overly full, McCormack suggests feeding them twice a day, in the morning and evening, allowing them to enjoy meals twice a day.
It is worth noting that some human foods can make dogs sick. Certain foods that seem healthy for humans can be harmful to dogs, such as grapes. Avoid feeding dogs these items.