Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight?

Weight gain is one of the most common health issues pets face and can also be one of the most complex. Overeating, not exercising enough, metabolism changes, and underlying illnesses can cause dogs to gain weight.

Although certain breeds are somewhat predisposed to weight gain, any dog can become overweight and even obese without adequate weight management.

Illnesses commonly cause rapid (rather than gradual) weight gain. If it seems like your dog has gained weight overnight, visit your vet to rule out conditions such as organ enlargement, ascites and thyroid disease.

Let's take a closer look at what causes dogs to gain weight, how weight gain is typically managed and treated, and what you can do to prevent your woofer from packing on the pounds in the future.

Weight gain in dogs often happens for the same reasons it does in people. Although disorders and diseases may trigger weight gain in some dogs, most animals gain weight due to poor diet, overeating, or a lack of exercise. Some of the possible causes of weight gain can include:

Cushing's disease  

Dogs with Cushing's disease have hormonal imbalances due to overactive pituitary or adrenal glands. If you notice your dog is developing a rounded abdomen, is panting and eating more, your vet may need to evaluate their hormone levels. 

Genetic predisposition        

Although any dog can become obese, certain breeds are at higher risk, like Labrador Retrievers, Dachshunds, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels. Pet parents of obesity-prone breeds should carefully monitor their pup's weight, diet, and exercise level to prevent weight gain.

Overeating and lack of exercise

Skipping walks and going overboard on the kibble can cause a dog's waistline to expand, especially when they both occur at the same time. This particular cause of weight gain is easier to prevent than reverse. 

Some dogs require more exercise than others due to differences in metabolism caused by genetics, age, medications, and medical history. 

Medication      

Some medications (like phenobarbital and glucocorticoids) can cause woofers to pack on the pounds. Inform your veterinarian if your pet suddenly begins to pick up weight after starting a new drug. The vet may need to change the medication or lower the dosage. 

Pregnancy      

If your female dog happens to be unsterilized, weight gain could be a result of an unplanned pregnancy. If Lady has recently gone through a heat cycle or had contact with intact males, you may want to schedule an examination.   

Stress      

Dogs with high stress and anxiety levels sometimes soothe themselves by eating and often consume more calories than they burn. Stress also increases cortisol levels, and when levels remain high for long periods, it can cause muscle loss and slow their metabolism. 

Thyroid disease           

Hypothyroidism is a common contributor to weight gain in canines. Schedule a vet appointment if your dog's weight gain is accompanied by lethargy, a dull coat, or oily, greasy skin. The vet will probably want to run a complete blood count and biochemical profile to help detect any underlying conditions.

So when should you be worried about your dog's weight?

What should you do if your dog is gaining weight? No matter what you suspect to be the cause, the first step is to consult a veterinarian. A vet can perform an exam and run tests to rule out underlying conditions and determine the root cause (and the correct treatment plan).

Treatment for overweight and obese dogs will vary depending on the cause. If your pet has recently started taking new medications, these drugs may need to be changed or adjusted.

If an underlying disease is causing your dog to gain weight, your vet will create a treatment plan to address that condition. Disorders such as thyroid disease and Cushing's disease may require lifelong medication to manage.

Stress can often be controlled through additional exercise, routine changes, and positive reinforcement training. However, vets may recommend anti-anxiety medications for severe cases.

Once any underlying conditions have been addressed, you'll need to work with a professional to modify your pet's diet and exercise routine. Your veterinarian can assist you in designing an effective diet and exercise regimen for your woofer's needs.

Providing your pooch with the correct amount of food for their individual metabolism and activity levels will go a long way in preventing weight gain. This includes reevaluating the animal's daily diet and exercise routine to compensate for factors like advancing age, neutering or spaying, and other factors that can influence changes in metabolism.  

Regular veterinary screenings can also help catch imbalances in hormones before they become problematic. If these disorders are treated promptly, it can help prevent excess weight gain. 

The cost of treating weight gain in dogs depends on whether underlying conditions are contributing to the weight gain (and what those conditions are).

The general cost for treating obesity averages around $220, whereas treatment for diseases such as Cushing's disorder typically runs in the $2,000–$3,000 range. 

Many of these disorders also incur monthly prescription costs on top of the initial treatment fees.

If your dog is at risk of weight gain due to a medical condition or genetic predisposition, check out our pet insurance comparison tool. See how insurance plans from leading insurers stack up so you can choose the right policy for your pet!