Articles and Research While we hope this website has given you all the information needed to get started on healthy canine weight management, additional research, and education are always recommended! Expand your knowledge and become a boss dog owner! Body condition scoring tutorial video Learning how to score your own pets body condition can be daunting, luckily there are plenty resources to help you score your pets body condition accurately and easily! Click here for tutorial Knuckle Body condition scoring tutorial video In addition to typical body condition score charts, there are ways to estimate body condition score using references you already have! Click here for tutorial Foods to Manage Obesity - Dry food It is important to understand feeding guidelines and how they differ between dry kibble and wet foods Available at Westbrook Veterinary Clinic Click here for dry food Foods to Manage Obesity - Wet food It is important to understand feeding guidelines and how they differ between dry kibble and wet foods Available at Westbrook Veterinary Clinic Click here for wet food Dog treadmill - Where to buy Dog treadmills are a great alternative for those who cannot get out as much. There are many dog treadmills for sale perfect for inside home exercise! Click here to buy Dog Treadmill - Is it safe? Dog treadmills are an available alternative/supplement to daily walks. Do they work? Are they safe? Click here for more info How and Why I Should Walk My Dog Walking is one of the most basic and essential movement needs for your furry friend! Want to learn more on the science behind it? Click here for more info Alternatives to walking dogs - Aqua therapy Some dogs may have joint or other mobility issues making walking a more difficult task. Luckily, there are alternatives! Click here for more info

Canine Obesity Our mission is to combat canine obesity by promoting healthy lifestyles, educating on nutrition and exercise, advocating for healthier communities, and providing accessible information to help pet owners keep their dogs healthy and fit.​Obesity is quickly overtaking malnutrition as the #1 nutritional disorder in developed countries. However, pet owners are the key to combating this obesity epidemic! ​Managing your pets weight is the easiest and most effective way to ensure you and your furry best friend have a long life filled with love, excitement, and companionship! ​To find out more on causes of obesity: Click Here Canine Obesity Is simply defined as an extreme excess of adipose (fat) tissue beyond the optimal range A dog who is 10% over ideal bodyweight is defined as overweight. A dog who is 30% over ideal bodyweight is considered obese. Pet Obesity Statistics 2024 40% of pets are Ideal 60% of pets are overweight or obese Statistics. 2024. Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. Available from: https://www.canadianveterinarians.net/about-cvma/media-centre/statistics/

THE HUMAN-CANINE BOND The Human-Canine Bond is an ancient connection that encompasses more than just companionship. It is a strong, natural bond that is built on mutual trust, respect, loyalty, and understanding. This bond manifests in many forms, reflecting the diverse roles dog's play in human lives. Importance of our bond The impact we have on our pets The impact we have on our animals is multifaceted and robust. There are many ways in which human behavior, education, mental affective state, and psychology affect the bond shared with our pets. ​ As puppies, canines are highly influenced by the actions, training, enrichment, exposure, and socialization provided by their owners. This socialization period is critical in the development of a strong life-long bond. ​ This is not to say a strong life-long bond cannot be formed with older dogs. Rescued dogs are typically slower to trust, this can be affected by the previous experiences of the dog and their individual personalities. However this also means that once you are a part of their pack, your bond will be as strong as ever. ​ Many dog owners continuously work at building their bond through feeding, training, cuddling, playing and grooming. Finding ways to mentally and physically enrich your pet does wonders for creating a healthy bond centralized around health, welfare and love. Understanding dog communication and body language is a must, and what's more, is understanding YOUR dogs communication and body language, as individual personalities and past experiences make every dog unique! Types of Bonds based on role K9 Working Dog K9 dogs, also known as police dogs or working dogs, fulfill various roles crucial to law enforcement and public safety. They form strong bonds with their handlers from birth. They are trained to detect drugs, explosives, firearms, and other illicit substances, assist in search and rescue missions, track suspects or missing persons, and provide patrol support by apprehending suspects and deterring criminal activity. Read More Livestock Guardian Dog Guardian dogs, also known as livestock guardian dogs (LGDs), are bred and trained to protect livestock, such as sheep, goats, or cattle, from predators like wolves, coyotes, or bears. They typically live with the livestock they protect and form a strong bond with them, acting as their constant companions and defenders. The bond between guardian dogs and their owners is often deep and symbiotic. Owners raise and train these dogs from a young age, fostering a relationship built on trust and mutual respect. Read More Sport Dogs Sport dogs are highly trained canines that participate in various competitive activities such as agility trials, obedience competitions, flyball races, and dock diving. These dogs undergo rigorous training to excel in their chosen sport. The bond between sport dogs and their owners is characterized by teamwork, trust, and mutual dedication. Owners invest significant time and effort into training and conditioning their dogs, building a strong foundation of communication and cooperation. Read More Service Dogs While most of aforementioned dogs are companion animals in addition to their roles, service dogs are a pivotal example of a companionship bond and a working dog. Service dogs aid persons with disabilities such as mobility issues, blindness, medical conditions, autism, PTSD and many more. Because a service animal is an integral part to the persons ability to go about daily life, the bond they share is unbreakable. The bond between a service animal and its handler may be different to those of strict companion animals due to the degree of dependence, reinforced by law. Read More Companion Dogs Companion dogs, also known as pets, fulfill a variety of roles centered around providing emotional support, companionship, and unconditional love to their owners rather than work or sport. The bond between companion dogs and their owners is characterized by affection, trust, and mutual dependency. Companion dogs become an integral part of their owner's life, offering comfort during difficult times, companionship during everyday activities, and a source of happiness and relaxation. Read More How does the type of relationship affect feeding practices? Different roles may constitute differing feeding Working dogs K9 Service Animals Livestock Guardians Herding dogs Search & Rescue dogs Cadaver dogs Other The bond between a human and a working dog significantly impacts feeding practices. Handlers maintain consistent feeding schedules and prioritize high-quality nutrition to support their dog's health and performance. This bond fosters a structured routine, with regular feeding times enhancing the connection between handler and dog. Handlers closely monitor their dog's eating habits as part of their care routine, ensuring any changes are promptly addressed. Overall, the strong bond between a human and a working dog influences feeding practices by emphasizing consistency, quality, routine, and attentive monitoring to promote the dog's well-being. Sport dogs Agility Dock Diving Obedience Scent work Barn hunts Firstly, owners may prioritize high-quality nutrition to support their dog's athletic performance and overall health, viewing proper feeding as essential for maintaining peak condition and energy levels. Secondly, the shared activities and training sessions between human and sport dog often create a structured routine, including regular feeding times, which fosters consistency and reinforces the bond between them. Additionally, owners closely monitor their sport dog's dietary needs, adjusting food portions or types based on activity levels and training intensity to ensure optimal nutrition and performance. This strong bond promotes attentive care and consideration of the dog's well-being, reflected in their feeding practices. Companion dogs The bond between humans and companion dogs influences feeding practices in distinct ways compared to working and sport dogs. In the case of companion dogs, feeding practices are often more centered around nurturing the emotional bond between human and dog rather than focusing solely on performance or work-related needs. Owners may prioritize feeding times as opportunities for bonding and shared experiences, reinforcing the companionship between them. Additionally, the emphasis may be on providing a balanced and nutritious diet to support the dog's overall health and well-being, without the same level of consideration for specific athletic or working requirements. The feeding routine for companion dogs is typically more flexible and based on the owner's schedule, fostering a sense of closeness and care within the relationship. Click here for Social Determinants Karetnick, J. 2023. Service dog 101: Everything you need to know about service dogs. American Kennel Club. Available from: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/service-dog-training-101/ Mmaennche. 2022. What is a companion dog? Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital. Available from: https://advancedpetvet.com/2022/06/17/what-is-a-companion-dog/#:~:text=Unlike%20a%20service%20dog%2C%20a,and%20even%20substance%20use%20issues. O’Keefe, J. H., E. L. O’Keefe, and C. J. Lavie. 2019. The Human-Canine Bond: A Heart’s Best Friend. National Library of Medicine Natural Centre for Biotechnology Information. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ Riddoch, K. A., R. D. Hawkins, and E. S. Cross. 2022. Exploring behaviours perceived as important for human—dog bonding and their translation to a robotic platform. PLOS ONE 17. Staff, A. 2024. What do K-9 police dogs do? American Kennel Club. Available from: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/what-do-police-dogs-do/

Assessing your own dog's body condition score is a useful self-diagnostic tool to determine the next steps in your canines health plan. Uncertainty can always be alleviated with a quick chat with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist! Assessing Body Condition Score Large Breed BCS Chart depicting measurable characteristics of body condition on large breed dogs Medium dog BCS Chart depicting measurable characteristics of body condition on medium breed dogs Small breed BCS Chart depicting measurable characteristics of body condition on small breed dogs Large Breed BCS Chart depicting measurable characteristics of body condition on large breed dogs 1/3 Click The Image for a Comprehensive List on Ideal Weight Ranges of Dog Breeds Note: These are Indicator Weights to Provide Helpful Insights to gauge the healthy weight for your pet along with BCS . Seek veterinarian advice for further confirmation We have BCS. What now?

Impact of Obesity on Canine Health and the Human-Canine Bond Obesity is currently the #1 nutritional disorder in canines. But there is good news! Canine obesity is almost 100% preventable with proper feeding management and exercise, as an owner, there are many things you can do to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy Actions against Obesity Direct Consequences Movement Impairment Obesity is a precursor and catalyst for developmental and degenerative joint diseases. The prolonged increase of load on the joints of dogs can lead to cruciate ligament tears, luxating patella's, and lesions on the hip joints which all serve as precursors to the development of osteoarthritis - an inflammatory joint disease that has severe implications on the animals ability to move comfortably and pain-free. Health & Body Systems Genetics and predisposed hereditary factors can also lead to increased risk of heart or metabolic disorders such as Diabetes, however, obese dogs are subject to an increased risk of developing Diabetes Mellitus during their life. Chronically diabetic dogs suffer from retinal degeneration, nephropathy, hepatopathy, and heart disease. Risk of developing cataracts and fatty liver disease increase with excess bodyweight. Decreased Lifespan The implications of obesity on the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, respiratory, and hepatic systems all contribute to a decreased lifespan of your pet. An ailment in one body system can contribute to difficulties in another! Increased Veterinary Costs Often times, owners cannot control when/why their pet has developed health issues. However obesity has been proven to contribute to the exacerbation of predisposed or idiopathic health issues - contributing to more frequent vet visits and more expensive vet bills! Benefits of Healthy Dog Weight Adventure & Activity Having an active and healthy companion comes with a variety of health and mental benefits for both humans and the animals. Physical capabilities enable the human-dog pair to partake in endless adventures in nature, which provides physical and mental stimulation to both parties. Activities such as hiking, swimming, running not only satiate the instinctive urges of canines, but have significant positive effects on human health and wellbeing Quality of Life Being physically healthy is one aspect of good quality of life. Other aspects that contribute to QOL include mental/affective states. Owners who do not have to stress over their animals health and wellbeing are subject to improved mental state. Owning a happy healthy dog directly correlates to reduced stress, decreased anxiety and depression, and becomes a mutually beneficial relationship! Companionship The bond between human and animal can be strengthened by mental peace of mind of the human, completing activities together, and proper feeding management. Providing essential needs for your dog including allowing them to be curious, feel safe, satiated, and to run off their energy will allow you and your furry best friend to keep each other company for many years to come! Economic Stability Poor health often results in more frequent vet visits, leading to increased costs from veterinary services, increased supplement use, medications, and other. Obese animals may drive up the amount of money spent on maintaining their feeding habits. What can I do to help? Bockstahler, B. A., D. A. Hulse, S. Carmichael, and W. G. Marshall. 2009. A review of osteoarthritis and obesity: Current understanding of the relationship and benefit of obesity treatment and prevention in the dog. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology 22:339–345. https://doi.org/10.3415/vcot-08-08-0069 Bomberg, E., Birch, L., Endenburg, N., German, A.J., Neilson, J., Seligman, H., Takashima, G., Day, M.J., 2017. The financial costs, behaviour, and psychology of obesity: a One Health analysis. J. Comp. Path. 156:310-325. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcpa.2017.03.007 Impellizeri, J. A., M. A. Tetrick, and P. Muir. 2000. Effect of weight reduction on clinical signs of lameness in dogs with hip osteoarthritis. J. of Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 216:1089–1091. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.2000.216.1089 Kawai, T., M. V. Autieri, and R. Scalia. 2021. Adipose tissue inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in obesity. American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology 320:375–391. Kealy, R. D., D. F. Lawler, J. M. Ballam, G. Lust, D. N. Biery, G. K. Smith, and S. L. Mantz. 2000. Evaluation of the effect of limited food consumption on radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis in dogs. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 217:1678–1680. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.2000.217.1678

Human-Canine Bond Welcome to the Paws N' Pounds Plan Health Movement. Together we can combat canine obesity and promote healthy lifestyles for our furry friends. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, our team of pet owners is dedicated to making a meaningful and lasting impact. Join us today and make a difference. Bark to the Basics: A Canine Obesity Guide Paws n' Pounds Plan - Stakeholders The Paws n' Pounds Plan was created in collaboration between the University of Alberta Human-Animal-Bond research group and Dr. Michael Kolla at Westbrook Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Kolla graduated from the University of Saskatchewan's Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1979. He joined Westbrook a few years later, and became the proud owner in 1993. Dr. Kolla's dedication is evident in his lasting relationships with countless Westbrook clients and their families. Dr. Michael Kolla, DVM Created in 2024, Paws n' Pounds Plan has been joining the fight against canine obesity. Our Health Movement is dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles, educating on nutrition and exercise, and advocating for healthier communities. Join us today and help us make a difference. Our Mission Human-Canine Bond

Feeding Management When considering the management of canine obesity, the primary component that must be considered is what the animal's nutrition is. Before initiating weight loss programs, it is important to seek out a veterinary professional. They will work with you to find the best way to help your animal reduce their weight, taking into account your individual dog's age, sex, activity level, breed, current body condition, and so on. Here is a compiled list of feeding practices that can help with obesity management and weight loss. ​ Obesity Management Diets Consistent Feeding Schedules Reduce Food Intake OM diets, are formulated with different nutrient compositions compared to standard diets. Typically contain higher protein, higher fibre, lower fat, and feed additives such as L-carnitine and natural flavourings. Higher protein ensures muscle mass​ is maintained. Higher fibre increases bulk in the diet, which will decrease your dog's appetite and keep them feeling full for longer. Lower fat reduces the energy content in the diet. L-carnitine optimizes the use of fatty acids in the body, reducing their deposition into fat tissues. Natural flavourings ensure your dog enjoys the taste of their meals! We recommend feeding your dog commercial food that has been formulated based on AAFCO. AAFCO stands for The Association of American Feed Control Officials. AAFCO is used by pet food companies when formulating balanced diets, to ensure the complete nutrient needs of your animal are met. Reduce Treats and Human Food Consumption Replacement Treats Understand Caloric Requirements As said already, the main objective of weight loss is to reduce caloric content Treat giving undeniably has the good intentions of rewarding your dog. However, it is important to recognize that treats may be contributing to caloric surplus in your animal, resulting in weight gain. So, reducing the amount of treats you give to your animal is an important step in your weight loss efforts.​ Dogs have a very different body composition and size compared to humans, and different caloric requirements as a result. What may seem like only a little bit of human food can actually be a large amount of calories for your dog. In addition, human food can be toxic to your dog, cause digestive upset, and encourage unwanted behaviours such as begging Hill's has two great sections on their website that may help you get a better understanding of the amount of calories certain foods are relative to your dog: ​https://www.hillspet.com/pet-care/nutrition-feeding/human-food-treat-translator https://www.hillspet.com/pet-care/nutrition-feeding/pet-calorie-converter It is important to recognize the importance of managing obesity, Keeping your dog healthy through proper feed management is a lifelong commitment, that requires consistent effort, discipline, and motivation. There is so much to gain by keeping your animal at a healthy weight and preventing obesity:​​ An increased lifespan of your companion,​ A reduced risk of metabolic and musculoskeletal disorders, And a healthier, happier bond with your animal. Exercise and Enrichment So, what should I feed my dog? The short and honest truth: Any reputable pet food should be fully packed with the essential nutrients needed. The most important factor is the AMOUNT! Westbrook Veterinary Clinic carries pet food that is nutritious, backed by science, and affordable! Shop at Westbrook Veterinary Clinic References Association for Pet Obesity Prevention conducts survey. 2023. Petfood Industry. Available from: https://www.petfoodindustry.com/news-newsletters/pet-food-press-releases/press-release/15469809/association-for-pet-obesity-prevention-conducts-survey Bartges, J., Kushner, R.F., Michel, K.E., Sallis, R., Day, M.J., 2017. One Health solution to obesity in people and their pets. J. Comp. Pathol. 156:326-333. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcpa.2017.03.008 Cairns-Haylor, T., Fordyce, P., 2017. Mapping discussion of canine obesity between veterinary surgeons and dog owners: a provisional study. Vet. Rec. 180:149. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.103878 Gossellin, J., Wren, J.A., and Sunderland, S.J., 2007. Canine obesity - an overview. J. Vet. Pharmacol. Ther. 30:1-10. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2885.2007.00863.x Kipperman, B.S., German, A.J., 2018. The responsibility of veterinarians to address companion animal obesity. Animals (Basel). 8:143. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani8090143 Kushner R.F., Blatner, D.J., Jewell, D.E., Rudloff, K., 2006. The PPET study: people and pets exercising together. Obesity. 14:1762-1770. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2006.203 Mlacnick, E., Bockstahler, B.A., Muller, M., Tetrick, M.A., Nap, R.C., Zentek, J., 2006. Effects of caloric restriction and a moderate or intense physiotherapy program for treatment of lameness in overweight dogs with osteoarthritis. JAVMA. 229:1756-1760. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.229.11.1756 Weber, M., Bissot, T., Servet, E., Sergheraert, R., Biourge, V., German, A.J., 2007. A high-protein, high-fiber diet designed for weight loss improves satiety in dogs. J. Vet. Intern. Med. 21:1203-1208 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2007.tb01939.x Yam, P.S., Naughton, G., Butowski, C.F., Root, A.L., 2017. Inaccurate assessment of canine body condition score, bodyweight, and pet food labels: a potential cause of inaccurate feeding. Vet. Sci. 4:30. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci4020030

Social Environment Many factors significantly influence the human-canine bond which may affect feeding practices and consequently, the prevalence of obesity. Within the diverse demographics of dog owners, various specific subgroups that interact with each other play equally important roles in determining the interactions between owner and dog. Factors such as age, cultural beliefs as well as practices in a dog's upbringing have strong connections with how an owner and their dog view food as a necessity versus a luxury. Owner Age An owner's age can easily influence the outcome of obesity due to the way they interact with physical exercise as well as feeding regimens. An older owner may not engage in much physical activity themselves, and this directly affects the amount of exercise their pet receives. Along with aging, many health concerns or limitations such as mobility issues or chronic conditions can limit an owner's ability to take their dogs for long walks or physically demanding activities such as play. Not only do these exercises strengthen the human canine bond, they are good ways of promoting healthy bodily tissues in dogs. On the flipside, lifestyle changes such as retirement allows owners to spend more time with their dogs and this may actually increase the amount of exercise that a dog receives. Additionally, increased knowledge of the importance of regular exercise and proper feeding regimens, and awareness of issues such as obesity in older owners, often gained through increased vet visits, can also drastically reduce the prevalence of obesity. While empirical data on the link between older owners and increased cases of obesity is lacking, proactive and preventative measures should be implemented by less active or older owners. Income An owner's income level may also alter the maintenance of dog health. Limited funds for veterinary care (regular check ups and medication) and lower quality/less regulated pet foods in lower income households may pose challenges. However, lower rates of purchasing and providing treats due to the lower income may act as a balancing effect, compensating for the lack of nutrients provided by premium pet foods. Studies conducted in highly industrialized societies such as Australia, France and the United States were compared to a study conducted in Hungary, and prevalence of obesity was found to be universal, and this shows that there are tradeoffs and by taking the beneficial aspects of both systems, indicating there is room to decrease obesity. Culture & Native Climate Cultural beliefs and attitudes towards feeding practices can determine the method of feeding, as well as the amount of food a dog receives. In a study that compared the feeding practices of Thai and Dutch dog owners, dogs living in Thailand were fed ad libitum at a higher rate compared to their Dutch counterparts. This could reflect cultural norms stemming from Buddhist beliefs that feeding dogs is a virtuous act, reaffirming the human-canine bond through feel-good acts. While it is expected that rates of obesity would increase with higher rates of ad libitum feeding, the geographic location intertwines with cultural beliefs and can offset this effect. In the same study conducted, it was found that Thai dogs exercised more regularly due to the tropical climate, as well as the presence of maids that took dogs out for walks more often, something that is less common in the Netherlands. This resulted in a balancing effect and there was not a noticeable difference in the rates of obesity between countries. Depending on the native climate and perhaps native cultural beliefs, there is a bit of leeway in the feeding practices as long as regular exercise is maintained What is Canine Obesity? Endenburg, N., S. Soontararak, C. Charoensuk, and H. A. van Lith. 2018. Quality of life and owner attitude to dog overweight and obesity in Thailand and the Netherlands. BMC Veterinary Research 14. Available from: https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-018-1531-z#citeas German, A. J., E. Blackwell, M. Evans, and C. Westgarth. 2017. Overweight dogs are more likely to display undesirable behaviours: Results of a large online survey of dog owners in the UK. Journal of Nutritional Science 6. Available from: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-nutritional-science/article/overweight-dogs-are-more-likely-to-display-undesirable-behaviours-results-of-a-large-online-survey-of-dog-owners-in-the-uk/933AD361252C0F31F33ECC4D52412D41 Orsolya Julianna, T., V. Kata, J. Vanda Katalin, and P. Péter. 2020. Factors affecting canine obesity seem to be independent of the economic status of the country—a survey on Hungarian companion dogs. Animals 10:1267. Suarez, L., I. Bautista-Castaño, C. Peña Romera, J. A. Montoya-Alonso, and J. A. Corbera. 2022. Is dog owner obesity a risk factor for canine obesity? A “one-health” study on human–animal interaction in a region with a high prevalence of obesity. Veterinary Sciences 9:243. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2306-7381/9/5/243

Strengthen the Human-Canine Bond Many pet owners view feeding and treat-giving as central ways of showing affection to their animals. When obesity enters into the picture, it is important to find alternative ways for owners to connect with their dogs and strengthen the human-canine bond, without being detrimental to their dog's health. Here is a suggested list of ways you can enhance the bond with your dog, without the use of food. Interactive Play and Exercise Interactive play and exercise can foster a deeper human-canine bond by increasing the quality time spent with your animal. Games and exercises that can be played include: Hide and seek Fetch Tug of war Frisbee Agility exercises Training Training offers the opportunity to exercise your dog's brain and strengthen their cognitive abilities. Some fun tricks that can be taught are: ​R oll over Spin, wave Bow Play 'dead' Walk backwards Cuddling Cuddling stimulates the release of oxytocin in both your dog and yourself. Oxytocin has been dubbed the "bonding hormone", and is associated in the scientific community with trust, relationship building, and positive emotional states. When cuddling, ensure you are not overstimulating your dog with too many snuggles or pets. Learn to read their body language, so you can create a positive, safe environment for them to relax with you.​ Brushing or Massaging Brushing your dog is good for coat maintenance by removing debris and dirt from the skin and the coat. Giving massages to your dog has the potential to help with their circulation and muscle pain, and it encourages a relaxed disposition. The quality time and physical touch provided in these two activities helps strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Here are some links to Youtube videos we have found on how to massage your dog: ​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wXdEmBDUQE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZZ70DpMVBc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tghk42R0QHU Socializing in New Environments This activity helps to build trusts between dog and owner, as new situations offer the opportunity for your dog to have increased confidence in your reliability and safety. It also may help desensitize your dog from stimulation that causes behavioural issues, that may be putting a strain on the human-canine bond, such as aggression. Exploring different situations also helps you learn and understand the boundaries your dog may have, so stressful or uncomfortable environments for your dog can be avoided in the future. Learning Dog Body Language Learning your dog's body language offers the opportunity to understand their level of comfort in certain situations and their current emotional states. By appreciating your dog's emotional state and understanding hesitations they may have, you can deepen your connection. Here are some links to resources we have found that may help you better understand dog body language: ​https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124000546 https://www.amazon.ca/How-Speak-Dog-Stanley-Coren/dp/074320297X https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siy0eog48ys&t=1s References Maharaj, N., Kazanjian, A., Haney, C.J.. 2016. The human-canine bond: a sacred relationship. J. Spiritual. Ment. Health. 18:76-89. https://doi.org/10.1080/19349637.2015.1047922

Exercise and Enrichment Exercise is a very important part of weight loss, as it burns excess calories, helps develop lean muscle mass, and improves the cardiovascular health of your dog. Some more basic forms of physical activity include brisk walks, jogging, and interactive play sessions. By increasing the inclusion of these activities into your dog’s life, you are working towards promoting your pet's overall fitness and well-being and reducing the consequences of animal obesity. If you are unsure how to begin incorporating more physical activity into your pet’s life, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian. Their advice will ensure that the exercises will be suitable for your dog’s current fitness level while working towards your goal of weight loss. Go Beyond the Walk Breed Specific Exercise Motivation Enrichment Go Beyond the Walk Walking throughout your residential area is an important part of increasing activity levels in your dog. By diversifying the exercises of your pet, they can enjoy the benefits of stepping outside of their routine and improving the fitness level of different muscles than ones they regularly use. It also helps to increase the intensity of the exercise - boosting the burning of calories - by reducing the amount of time your dog may spend sniffing (which can be a frequent distraction during regular walks). Some different exercises to try include: Swimming Hiking Dog agility training Going to the dog park Playing fetch References Association for Pet Obesity Prevention conducts survey. 2023. Petfood Industry. Available from: https://www.petfoodindustry.com/news-newsletters/pet-food-press-releases/press-release/15469809/association-for-pet-obesity-prevention-conducts-survey Bartges, J., Kushner, R.F., Michel, K.E., Sallis, R., Day, M.J., 2017. One Health solution to obesity in people and their pets. J. Comp. Pathol. 156:326-333. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcpa.2017.03.008 Cairns-Haylor, T., Fordyce, P., 2017. Mapping discussion of canine obesity between veterinary surgeons and dog owners: a provisional study. Vet. Rec. 180:149. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.103878 Gossellin, J., Wren, J.A., and Sunderland, S.J., 2007. Canine obesity - an overview. J. Vet. Pharmacol. Ther. 30:1-10. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2885.2007.00863.x Kipperman, B.S., German, A.J., 2018. The responsibility of veterinarians to address companion animal obesity. Animals (Basel). 8:143. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani8090143 Kushner R.F., Blatner, D.J., Jewell, D.E., Rudloff, K., 2006. The PPET study: people and pets exercising together. Obesity. 14:1762-1770. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2006.203 Schipper, L.J., Vinke, C.M., Schilder, M.B.H., Spruijit, B.M.. 2008. The effect of feeding enrichment toys on the behaviour of kennelled dogs (Canis familiaris). Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 114:182-195. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2008.01.001

Drivers of Canine Obesity Prevention of obesity-related disorders is always simpler, more convenient, and cheaper than the processes required to treat obesity and its related health disorders. In order to understand how to prevent obesity, we must understand what causes obesity! ​ ​ Overfeeding Regular dog food, treats, table scraps, human food Feeding excessive amounts of foods during regular meals, along with providing high energy snacks or treats are some of the main drivers of obesity. Simply put, when energy consumed is higher than energy used, the remaining energy is converted to the most efficient form of energy storage, which in this case is fat. Inconsistent Feeding Inconsistent meal portions and meal times Can also disrupt a dog's natural appetite regulatory mechanisms. A dog that is accustomed to irregular meal sizes may overeat if it anticipates a smaller meal the next day, and in most cases they would rather overeat than starve. This may lead to the inability to self-regulate food intake. Hunger and satiety regulating hormones such as leptin and ghrelin may also activate at different times during the day due to inconsistent feeding which can further contribute to overeating and weight gain. Insufficient Exercise Physical and Mental Effects Exercise is one of the most effective forms of energy expenditure and it has many physical and mental benefits and without regular exercise, weight gain and obesity can occur extremely quickly.Without sufficient exercise, issues such as caloric imbalance, decreased metabolic rate, muscle wasting, increased appetite due to boredom or lack of stimulation as well as behavioural changes that disrupts feeding activity can all contribute to weight gain and obesity. Genetic Predisposition Breeds that have higher risk There are certain breeds that have increased risk of obesity. Sporting/working breeds will also require more exercise than the average dog. Here are some common breeds that an owner of should be more wary of: Basset hounds, Beagles, Boxers, Cairn terriers, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Poodles, Shetland Sheepdogs, Golden Retrievers Neuter Status Removal of male dog testicles & Removal of female ovaries +/- uterus Important sex hormones that play a role in regulating muscle and adipose tissue development include testosterone (male) and estrogen (female). Testosterone in particular has anabolic effects that promote muscle growth and increases the basal metabolic rate. The removal of reproductive organs also reduces overall energy requirements since there are less organs to maintain now. In addition to reduced energy required, neutering can also alter behaviour in our dogs, adopting a more sedentary lifestyle. This reduction in activity levels can further contribute to the risk of obesity. Age Lean body mass and metabolic rate As our canine companions age, several physiological changes that begin to occur can accelerate the rate of fat buildup, eventually leading to obesity. One notable change is the decrease in their lean body mass that reduces their energy intake requirements. At the same time, their metabolic rate also begins to slow down and they become less efficient at utilizing the calories that they consume. Overfeeding or even maintaining the same feeding regimen as when they were younger can result in the imbalance of energy intake and expenditure, resulting in the accumulation of excess fat and adipose tissue which eventually leads to obesity. Moreover, a higher degree of leniency from the owners when it comes to regular exercise in aging dogs can also contribute to obesity. Health complications Unrelated health complications that contribute to obesity Current health complications can result in increased weight gain by altering the metabolic rate or by increasing a dog's appetite. Hypothyroidism is a fairly common endocrine disorder in dogs that results in a decrease of hormones produced by the thyroid glands that are responsible for regulating the body's metabolic rate. A decrease in hormonal production means a depressed metabolic rate, leading to the potential of weight gain without an increased appetite. Another commmon disease is Cushing's disease, which is another name for hyperadrenocorticism meaning an increase in the production of cortisol, a stress hormone that stimulates appetite, by the adrenal glands. Increased cortisol production leads to an increased appetite as well as lethargy, which can further increase the risk of obesity due to their lack of want to exercise. Drivers of obesity Overfeeding Feeding excessive amounts of foods during regular meals, along with providing high energy snacks or treats are some of the main drivers of obesity. Simply put, when energy consumed is higher than energy used, the remaining energy is converted to the most efficient form of energy storage, which in this case is fat. Inconsistent feeding Inconsistent feeding can also disrupt a dog's natural appetite regulatory mechanisms. A dog that is acustomed to irregular meal sizes may over-eat if it anticipates a smaller meal the next day, and in most cases they would rather over-eat than starve. This may lead to the inability to self-regulate food intake. Hunger and satiety regulating hormones such as leptin and ghrelin may also activate at different times during the day due to inconsistent feeding which can further contribute to overeating and weight gain. Inadequate exercise Insufficient exercise can contribute to dog obesity by leading to an imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure. When dogs don't get enough physical activity, they burn fewer calories, which can result in excess energy being stored as fat. This can lead to weight gain over time, ultimately contributing to obesity. Additionally, lack of exercise can also lead to muscle loss and decreased metabolic rate, further exacerbating the issue. Genetic predisposition There are certain breeds that have increased risk of obesity. Here are some common breeds that an owner of should be more wary of: - Basset hounds - Beagles - Boxers - Cairn terriers - Cavalier King Charles spaniels - Cocker spaniels - Dachshunds - Poodles - Shetland sheepdogs Age As our canine companions age, several physiological changes that begin to occur can accelerate the rate of fat buildup, eventually leading to obesity. One notable change is the decrease in their lean body mass that reduces their energy intake requirements. At the same time, their metabolic rate also begins to slow down and they become less efficient at utilizing the calories that they consume. Overfeeding or even maintaining the same feeding regimen as when they were younger can result in the imbalance of energy intake and expenditure, resulting in the accumulation of excess fat and adipose tissue which eventually leads to obesity. Neuter status While neutering your pet offers numerous benefits such as reduced aggression and not having to worry about unplanned litters, there are potential consequnces in the removal of gonads that results in changes to circulating hormones and the basal metabolic rate. Important sex hormones that play a role in regulating muscle and adipose tissue development include testosterone (male) and estrogen (female). Testosterone in particular has anabolic effects that promote muscle growth and increases the basal metabolic rate. The removal of reproductive organs also reduces overall energy requirements since there are less organs to maintain now. In addition to reduced energy required, neutering can also alter behaviour in our dogs, adopting a more sedentary lifestyle. This reduction in activity levels can further contribute to the risk of obesity. Medications Live and Learn It is important to note that obesity is not solely caused by the actions of people. There are many different conditions and genetic variables that predispose an animal to gain excess weight. We must remember to be kind to both ourselves and our animals, many times, these results are not the fault of the owner! That being said, it is always important to educate yourself and be open minded to suggestions - especially if it is for the benefit of your furry best friend and yourself! Implications of Obesity Barnes, C., M. Weir, and E. Ward. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs. vca_canada_corporate. Available from: https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/cushings-disease-in-dogs Byers, C. 2011. Obesity in dogs, Part 1: Exploring the causes and consequences of canine obesity. DVM 360. Available from: https://www.dvm360.com/view/obesity-dogs-part-1-exploring-causes-and-consequences-canine-obesity Gossellin, J., J. A. Wren, and S. J. Sunderland. 2007. Canine obesity - an overview. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 30:1–10. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2885.2007.00863.x. Regmi, S. 2020. Obesity In Canines: Issues, Causes, Treatments And Managements. Cell Biology and Cell Metabolism. 7:1–5. doi:https://doi.org/10.24966/cbcm-1943/100022. Wakshlag, J., and J. Loftus. 2014. Canine and feline obesity: a review of pathophysiology, epidemiology, and clinical management. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports. 49–60. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/vmrr.s40868. Weir, M., K. Williams, and R. Downing. Obesity in Dogs. vca_canada_corporate. Available from: https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-dogs Weir, M., K. Williams, and E. Ward. Hypothyroidism in Dogs. vca_canada_corporate. Available from: https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/hypothyroidism-in-dogs Williams, K., and R. Downing. Overweight, Obesity, and Pain in Dogs: Overview | VCA Canada Animal Hospitals. VcaCanada. Available from: https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/overweight-obesity-and-pain-in-dogs-overview

What Can We Do? BCS and Weight Charts Exercise and Enrichment Feeding Manag e ment Strengthen the Human-Canine Bond