Dog obesity: Veterinary practices' and owners' opinions on cause and management

Abstract

Obesity in dogs is attributed to several factors, including genetic pre-disposition, reproductive management and dietary/exercise (human) management. A quantitative analysis of questionnaire responses from dog owners and veterinary practices in Victoria, Australia was used. A total of 219 dog owner questionnaire and 153 veterinary practice questionnaires were returned. Veterinary practices estimated the prevalence of dog obesity within their practice as 30% on average, ranging from <10 to 100%. Veterinary practices felt that 3% of cases could be attributed to dog specific factors and 97% to human specific factors such as diet, exercise and owner attitudes. Management strategies included redu..