Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight? Food Could Be the Answer

Question

Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight? Food Could Be the Answer

Short answer

The most common reason dogs gain weight is that they consume more calories than they burn. Food may be the answer if meals are guessed, treats are frequent, the food changed to a higher-calorie formula, or activity decreased without adjusting portions.

Hidden calories

Many owners count kibble but forget biscuits, dental chews, bread, cheese, peanut butter, table scraps, and training treats. Small amounts can be large for a small dog.

Did the food change?

Two foods with similar-looking portions can have very different calories. Check kcal per cup, can, or kilogram. If you changed to a more energy-dense food and kept the same volume, weight gain can happen.

Other factors

Neutering, aging, less exercise, joint pain, anxiety, multiple feeders, and free-feeding can contribute. Medical causes such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease may also need to be ruled out.

Practical plan

Measure food with a scale, count treats, track weight and body condition, adjust gradually, and ask your veterinarian for a target weight if your dog is overweight.

Conclusion

Weight gain rarely comes from nowhere. Start with total daily calories, including extras, and adjust to the dog’s real body condition.

Sources consulted

• AAFCO — Selecting the Right Pet Food: https://www.aafco.org/consumers/understanding-pet-food/selecting-the-right-pet-food/
• AAFCO — Natural: https://www.aafco.org/consumers/understanding-pet-food/natural/
• AAHA — Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines: https://www.aaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/new-2021-aaha-nutrition-and-weight-management-guidelines-with-ref.pdf
• AAHA — Nutritional Assessment: https://www.aaha.org/resources/life-stage-canine-2019/nutritional-assessment-2/
• WSAVA — Nutrition Guidelines: https://wsava.org/Global-Guidelines/Global-Nutrition-Guidelines/
• FDA — Proper Storage of Pet Food & Treats: https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/proper-storage-pet-food-treats
• PetMD — How To Store Dog Food: https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/how-to-store-dog-food
• PetMD — Dog Food Ingredients and Labels: https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/pet-food-ingredient-and-label-guide
• AKC — Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/best-dog-food-sensitive-stomachs/
• VCA — Skin, Coat and Diet: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/the-importance-of-your-pets-skin-and-coat-and-the-role-of-diet
• Merck Veterinary Manual — Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals