October 10: National Pet Obesity Awareness Day 🐾

October 10 marks National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, a reminder that keeping our pets at a healthy weight is just as important as training their minds and manners. Just like people, dogs can struggle with extra pounds—and those extra pounds can lead to serious health issues.

Why Pet Obesity Matters

Over half of pets in the U.S. are considered overweight or obese. While a chubby pup might look cute, carrying extra weight can shorten their lifespan and put them at risk for:

• Joint pain and arthritis
  
  

• Diabetes
  
  

• Heart and respiratory problems
  
  

• Decreased energy and mobility
  
  

How to Tell if Your Dog is Overweight

A quick “at-home” test is the rib check: you should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without pressing hard, and when looking from above, you should see a defined waistline. If you can’t, it might be time to take a closer look at their nutrition and exercise.

Helping Your Dog Stay Healthy

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight doesn’t have to be complicated:

• Measure meals – Guessing leads to overfeeding. Use a measuring cup or scale for accuracy.
  
  

• Choose the right food – Quality food with the right nutrients supports weight management.
  
  

• Use training as exercise – Short, fun training sessions burn energy and strengthen your bond.
  
  

• Daily walks & play – Physical activity is crucial for both mental and physical health.
  
  

• Healthy treats – Use training rewards wisely. Small pieces of lean protein, veggies, or training treats in moderation can still motivate without overdoing calories.
  
  

Training + Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced routine of exercise, training, and mental stimulation creates happy and healthy dogs. A dog who maintains a healthy weight not only lives longer but also learns better, has more stamina, and enjoys life to the fullest.

Bottom line: National Pet Obesity Awareness Day is a great opportunity to pause and check in on your pup’s health. Small changes in feeding, activity, and training can make a big difference in your dog’s quality of life.

🐶✨ Because the best gift we can give our dogs is more healthy years by our side.