Weight management for dogs: simple steps that actually work

Is your dog carrying extra weight? Even a few pounds can strain joints, make play less fun, and raise health risks. The good news: safe weight loss is doable with clear steps, small changes, and regular checks.

Start by getting a baseline. Weigh your dog on a reliable scale and use a body condition score (BCS) chart—your vet can show you how. Note the current weight and the ideal target weight. That target guides every choice from food to exercise.

Practical diet and calorie tips

Calculate energy needs using the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) formula: RER = 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75. A smart approach is to use the dog’s target weight when doing this math and treat that result as your starting calorie goal. For example, a 10 kg target gives an RER near 400 kcal/day—your vet can adjust that number for activity and health.

Measure food with a kitchen scale or measuring cup every time. Don't guess. Use a weight-control formula or a high-protein, high-fiber food to keep your dog feeling full with fewer calories. If you switch foods, do it gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.

Cut empty calories: treats and table scraps add up fast. Swap calorie-dense treats for carrot sticks, green beans, or small pieces of apple (no seeds). Count treats in the daily calorie total. Consider using a portion of the kibble as training treats to avoid extra calories.

Exercise, routines, and tracking

Increase activity slowly. Add short walks, play sessions, or swimming twice a day and build up time and intensity over weeks. For older dogs or those with joint issues, low-impact options like water therapy work well. Aim for consistency—daily movement beats sporadic intense sessions.

Weigh-ins: schedule weekly or biweekly weigh-ins and keep a simple log of weight, daily calories, and activity. Adjust calories only after a few weeks if weight isn’t dropping. A safe loss rate is typically slow and steady—your vet will recommend a target like 1–2% of body weight per week depending on the dog.

Medical check: before starting any plan, rule out underlying causes such as hypothyroidism or certain medications. Your vet can suggest blood tests and tailor a plan for dogs with diabetes, joint disease, or other conditions.

Keep treats, portions, and activity consistent across the household. If everyone follows the same rules, your dog gets fewer mixed signals and better results. Celebrate small wins—more energy, easier walks, and better mobility are signs you’re on the right track.

Need help? Bring your dog’s weight log, food label, and activity notes to your vet. They’ll help fine-tune calories, suggest suitable diets, and set a timeline that keeps your dog healthy while losing weight.