Being overweight is not just a matter of appearance for dogs. Every extra kilogram puts additional strain on the musculoskeletal system, joints and muscles. Over time, this extra strain can affect a dog's mobility, willingness to move and overall quality of life.

That is why it is important to look not only at the number on the scale, but also at the dog's overall body condition.

How does excess weight affect a dog's mobility?

Every time a dog takes a step, its body weight is transferred through its legs and joints. If a dog is overweight, its musculoskeletal system has to cope with a greater load during walking, running, getting up, jumping and other everyday activities.

Excess weight can place greater demands on the joints and muscles. As a result, a dog may become less willing to move, tire more easily or have difficulty with movements that used to be easy for them.

Less movement can then lead to a loss of muscle mass and physical fitness. This can create a vicious cycle:

excess weight → greater strain on the musculoskeletal system → less movement → weaker muscles → reduced mobility

Why are muscles so important for dogs?

Well-developed and active muscles help support and stabilize the musculoskeletal system. When a dog uses its muscles regularly and appropriately, it helps maintain mobility and physical fitness.

Movement can be more difficult for an overweight dog. If the dog starts avoiding physical activity because it is uncomfortable or tiring, the muscles may gradually become weaker. This can further affect stability and the quality of movement.

That is why it is important to address not only the dog's weight, but also its overall physical condition and appropriate level of activity.

How can you tell if your dog has a healthy body condition?

The number on the scale does not always tell us whether a dog is at an ideal weight. Every dog has a different body structure, amount of muscle mass and body proportions.

That is why it is also important to look at the dog's body shape and feel the body by hand.

In a dog with a healthy body condition, the ribs should be easy to feel but should not be clearly visible. When viewed from above, the waist should be visible, and from the side, the abdomen should be slightly tucked upwards.

On the other hand, if the ribs are difficult to feel, there is no visible waist and excessive fat has accumulated on the body, the dog may be overweight or obese.

The accompanying illustration shows the differences between the individual body condition levels in dogs.

Excess weight does not only affect the joints

Excess body weight can affect the entire musculoskeletal system. It is therefore not only about the joints, but also about the muscles, spine and the dog's overall ability to move comfortably.

A healthy body weight is important not only because it allows a dog to move more easily and freely. Being significantly above or below the ideal body weight can also increase the risk of various health problems in the long term.

Excess body weight can affect the entire musculoskeletal system. It is therefore not only about the joints, but also about the muscles, spine and the dog's overall ability to move comfortably.

A healthy body weight is important not only because it allows a dog to move more easily and freely. Being significantly above or below the ideal body weight can also increase the risk of various health problems in the long term.

• In overweight dogs, joint problems and other musculoskeletal issues may occur more frequently. Excess weight can also have a negative effect on a dog's quality of life and lifespan.
• In dogs that are underweight, the body may not receive enough energy and essential nutrients. This can lead to a weakened immune system, loss of muscle mass and, in puppies, problems with growth and development.

Why is a healthy weight also important for senior dogs?

As dogs age, changes in muscle mass, physical fitness and mobility naturally occur. Movement may gradually become more difficult, and muscles may naturally become weaker.

For this reason, unnecessary excess weight can place an even greater burden on the musculoskeletal system of a senior dog. Maintaining an appropriate body weight and suitable level of physical activity can help a dog remain active and mobile for as long as possible.

What can we do for our dogs?

The basics are appropriate nutrition, a suitable amount of physical activity and regular monitoring of the dog's body condition.

If you feel that your dog is starting to gain weight, it is better to address the situation early rather than wait until excess weight becomes a significant problem.

Physical activity should be adapted to the dog's age, fitness level, health condition and individual abilities. If a dog is significantly overweight, in pain or experiencing difficulties with movement, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Caring for your dog's musculosk-eletal system

Regular, appropriate exercise, a healthy body weight and good muscle condition are all important parts of caring for your dog.

Dog massage can be a suitable addition to overall care for the musculoskeletal system. It can support muscle relaxation, regeneration and the dog's overall well-being. However, it does not replace veterinary examination or treatment of a health problem.

A healthy weight is not just about how a dog looks. It is an important part of maintaining comfortable movement, good physical condition and a good quality of life.