Some dog breeds are more prone to gaining weight. Here are the breeds that need special consideration when it comes to their diet.
Like all animals, there are a number of factors that can make certain dogs more prone to obesity. Across the board, dogs who are desexed, female or older are more likely to be overweight. These factors are definitely things that need to be considered when you’re deciding on your pet’s diet and exercise routine. But if your dog falls into some of the following breed categories, it’s likely you’ll need to pay extra attention to their health.
Chihuahuas
This petite breed can easily fall into the trap of carrying extra weight. This can sometimes come down to a tendency for people to pick them up and carry them. Another issue is that owners can overestimate their daily food intake. As they are so small, reviewing the feeding guide on the packet of their food is essential, as well as keeping an eye on their weight. You’ll also want to talk to your local Greencross Vets to be sure you have all the facts about their nutrition and know how to tell if they’re overweight.
Beagles
A genetic tendency towards a disease that slows their metabolism combined with a love of food makes Beagles a prime candidate for being overweight. Originally, Beagles were bred for hunting but their modern lifestyles are much slower paced. They also have a very keen sense of smell – perfect for sniffing out any food scraps that might fall from the dinner table. For these reasons, you need to keep a close eye on your Beagle’s diet.
Dachshunds
Similar to Beagles, Dachshunds were originally bred for the high-energy requirements of hunting, but today’s slower lifestyle is not a great match for their little legs. Because this breed can have issues related to their spine, it’s essential that they aren’t overweight. Be sure to check in with your local Greencross Vets to ensure that your pet is at their healthiest.
Labradors
This breed tops popularity contests, year after year. They’re a great match for families and this could be one of the clues to the high rate of Labrador obesity – they are also great at cleaning up the food scraps shared by the family. While the breed is notoriously food obsessed, scientists have also uncovered that genetics can impact a Labrador’s potential to gain weight. Be sure you keep a close eye on how much they’re eating – limiting all those added extras where possible.
Pugs
We’ve all seen a Pug with one roll too many. These gorgeous dogs are known to be food mad and their faces tend to draw people into feeding them treats. Over-feeding is one issue in itself, but then you add in the fact that Pugs are a squishy-faced breed (brachycephalic dogs), and you have a clear picture of a dog that doesn’t have huge stamina for exercise. These factors put Pugs right in the danger zone for being overweight.
Bulldogs
Another squishy-faced (brachycephalic) dog breed, Bulldogs are often seen puffing and panting their way around town. The characteristics that make them look so special, make it really hard for them to breathe and lose heat through panting, so they aren’t able to cope with strenuous exercise. Some owners like these dogs to look bigger, which may just mean they are carrying extra fat.
For more information on finding the best dog food for your pet, no matter their breed, feel free to talk to a friendly Petbarn team member.
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