The impact excess weight in dogs has on their owners

Only 1 out of 5 pet owners in the US believe their pets are overweight. However, data from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) suggests that around 3 out of 5 dogs (59%) are overweight. 

A new survey by Purina surveyed over 600 US dog owners who identified their dogs as overweight. It concluded that 75% of them felt guilty when their dogs were hungry.

But at the same time, most (67%) agreed that food was a source of happiness for their pets and that they did not want to lose the bond they had established with them based on treats.

More than half (54%) said they feed their dogs more treats, table scraps or food when they beg. 

Impact in life

As much as 88% of respondents were concerned about their dog’s weight, and 92% agreed weight loss could benefit their pet. The same pool confirmed they feel sad when their pet can’t participate in activities like they did before. 

Pet obesity also affects a dog’s physical health, with 45% reporting less energy in their dogs during playtime. Those whose dogs tire easily (44%) were followed by those whose dogs were less engaged or playful (27%). 

Most commonly, owners reduced the existing amount of food they gave their dogs, cut back on treats and increased exercise, but over two-thirds (68%) who tried those admitted that their animals lost little weight or no weight at all.