One in three dogs in the world are obese - and live shorter lives

This is the conclusion reached by experts from the Mars Waltham Pet Nutrition Centre and the University of Liverpool. The problem is also relevant for Ukraine: according to various estimates, more than 40% of Ukrainians have a dog, and obesity among pets is growing. Today about every third dog or cat in the world is overweight.

At the same time, many owners do not even realise that their pet has already gone beyond the norm - and even less understand how it affects its health and life expectancy.

Why overweight is dangerous

Study co-author Professor Alex Jerman of the University of Liverpool explains:

"Owners are often unaware that their dog is overweight and many don't realise how this affects health. They don't know that if a pet is too heavy, they have a significantly higher risk of joint problems, respiratory problems, some cancers, and a reduced quality of life. All of these things can significantly reduce a dog's life expectancy."

The scientists analysed data from more than 50,000 dogs from 12 of the most popular breeds, collected by the BANFIELD veterinary network over more than 20 years. The link between overweight and shortened lifespan was seen in all breeds.

Examples:

• in German Shepherd Dogs, being overweight shortened life by about 5 months on average;

• yorkshire Terriers by about 2 years and 6 months.

The smaller the breed, the greater the negative impact of obesity on life expectancy.

How owner habits make a dog fat

For many people, food is a way to express love for an animal. So owners often feed their dog "tasty morsels" or give them leftovers from the table. But the figures look alarming:

• only one in five owners accurately measure their dog's food;

• 87% feed by eye.

It is this 'relaxed' feeding that most often leads to slow but constant weight gain.

How to help your dog live longer

Experts emphasise that preventing obesity is much more effective than trying to "diet" an already obese pet. Basic recommendations:

• Consult yourvet - find out the ideal weight for your dog's breed and age, as well as the appropriate feeding regime.

• Provide adequate exercise - the length and intensity of walks depends on age, breed and health.

• Don't feed from the table - many foods from the human table are not only calorific but also toxic to dogs.

• Weigh your pet regularly - even +0.5kg can be critical for small breeds.

The main conclusion of the study is simple: being overweight for a dog is not "the cutest chubby", but a medical problem that directly reduces life years. The sooner the owner realises this, the better the chances of giving their dog a long and active life.