Weight Loss Tips for Dogs

If you’ve got a hefty hound at home, you might be asking: What’s the best way to help my dog lose weight safely? Am I feeding them too much? Is more exercise enough? What’s the best weight loss diet for dogs?

Don’t worry—you’re in the right place. Alison Frost, ProDog Raw’s Head Canine Nutritionist, is here to share her expert tips. With years of experience in canine nutrition and a deep passion for helping dogs thrive, Alison knows exactly what it takes to achieve healthy, sustainable weight loss.

If you’re unsure whether your dog is overweight, Dr. Nick Thompson explains a simple hands-on method in the video below—no scales required! This is especially useful for owners of large or giant breeds, where weighing can be a challenge.

Helping your dog lose weight isn’t just about cutting back on food or increasing exercise, it often requires a combination of changes to their diet, activity levels, and overall lifestyle. The goal should always be safe, sustainable weight loss, rather than focusing on shedding the pounds as quickly as possible.

Rapid weight loss can be harmful, leading to muscle loss, nutritional deficiencies, and increased stress on the body. Instead, a steady, well-balanced approach ensures long-term success and overall well-being.

In this blog, I’ll share seven key factors to consider when creating a safe and effective weight loss plan for your dog. Each plays a crucial role in helping them achieve a healthy weight while supporting their overall well-being.

Since nutrition is a major piece of the weight loss puzzle, I’ve dedicated the second part of this blog exclusively to diet and feeding tips—because what you put in your dog’s bowl actually matters more than their exercise routine.

1. Change their feeding routine

Many of us feed our dogs twice a day, and for most dogs this routine works fine. However, if you’re trying to help your dog lose weight, you may want to consider feeding them once a day instead. This allows them to anticipate food less often and gives their gut a chance to rest between meals.

Important note: Toy breeds and dogs with reflux or diabetes shouldn’t be fed once daily. This underscores the need to tailor each dog’s weight loss plan to their individual needs.

Of course, changing their routine will have to be done gradually, so the actual weight loss itself won’t begin right away. You’ll also have to make sure that they’re still getting the appropriate number of calories; you don’t want them to develop a nutritional deficiency.

If you’re unsure how many calories your dog needs to stay healthy while losing weight, consult your vet for guidance. If you feed raw dog food, our handy raw food calculator can provide a useful estimate. Alternatively, you can contact our nutrition team, who are happy to guide you through the process.

2. Maintain a feeding schedule

Sticking to regular mealtimes helps regulate your dog’s metabolism and prevents mindless overeating.

• Avoid free feeding – Leaving food out all day encourages grazing, which can lead to excessive calorie intake and weight gain.
• Set consistent feeding times – Feeding at the same times each day helps create a routine, making it easier to manage portions and track progress.
• Measure portions carefully – Ensure your dog is getting the right amount of food for their weight loss goals. Overfeeding, even slightly, can slow progress.
• Remove uneaten food after 20 minutes – If your dog doesn’t finish their meal, take the food away to reinforce structured eating habits and prevent unnecessary snacking.

3. Increase their exercise

Many overweight dogs simply aren’t getting enough physical activity. Regular walks, play sessions, and even swimming can all help burn calories and keep your dog engaged. However, be mindful of their limitations. Older dogs, very overweight or large breeds may need a gentler approach. Always start slow and build up gradually. If you’re unsure, consult a vet or trainer for a tailored exercise plan.

4. Consider fasting

While this might be difficult for you both at first, knowing the health benefits of fasting for your canine pal might help you get past the guilt of those puppy dog eyes [1]. Intermittent fasting can be a powerful tool for weight loss, offering benefits such as detoxification and gut health improvements.

Fasting can be a beneficial practice for canine health, but it must be introduced gradually to ensure safety. However, it’s important to note that puppies, toy breeds, and dogs with reflux or other health conditions may not be suitable candidates for fasting. Always consult your vet or a canine nutritionist before incorporating fasting into your dog’s routine.

If given the all-clear, start by gradually reducing their food intake on one day each week (or every two weeks). Over time, your dog will adjust to the routine, making it easier to manage hunger and reducing the likelihood of persistent begging.

For more insights, Dr. Nick Thompson’s article, Hunger, Fasting & Once A Day Feeding, provides valuable guidance on this topic.

5. Minimise snacks

Treats are a staple in most dog households and can be incredibly useful, especially for training. However, many owners don’t realise just how quickly those small rewards add up, often contributing far more calories to their dog’s diet than needed.

To keep treats from sabotaging weight loss efforts, opt for healthier alternatives. Small pieces of vegetables, dried or dehydrated pure meat, and other species-appropriate options are great choices. ProDog’s range of natural dog treats is an excellent place to start, offering nutritious, high-quality treats with zero unnecessary ingredients.

For a long-lasting, healthy option, raw meaty bones are a fantastic choice. Not only do they satisfy your dog’s urge to chew, but they also support dental health and provide natural exercise [2].

Another way to manage treat intake is by adjusting meal portions. Feeding slightly smaller meals creates space for training treats without exceeding daily calorie needs. However, it’s crucial that all treats provide nutritional value. Weighing and calculating treats as part of your dog’s overall food allowance ensures balance, while swapping nutritious meals for low-quality snacks can leave them unsatisfied and negatively impact their long-term health.

6. Reduce stress

Stress in dogs can stem from a range of factors, such as boredom, isolation, anxiety, and depression. A lack of mental stimulation, spending too much time alone, inconsistent structure, too much or too little environmental stimulation, or sudden routine changes can all contribute to stress.

If your dog struggles with separation anxiety or gets nervous around fireworks and other loud noises, Caroline Spencer, Canine Behaviourist, shares expert tips on how to help them stay calm in these situations. Check out her blogs, Overcoming Separation Anxiety and How to Support a Dog Nervous of Fireworks.

Addressing stress-related behaviours can not only improve a dog’s emotional health but also support a more balanced metabolism and a healthier weight.

7. Incorporating enrichment activities

Enrichment isn’t just about physical exercise, it also includes mental stimulation, which is just as important for your dog’s overall well-being. In fact, engaging their brain burns calories too, making mental enrichment a valuable part of a weight loss plan.

Activities like scent games, puzzle toys, and interactive training sessions provide problem-solving challenges that keep dogs mentally engaged while helping to regulate their energy levels. These activities can reduce boredom, ease anxiety, and prevent frustration-driven overeating.

Caroline Spencer, Canine Behaviourist, has put together a fantastic guide on getting started with scent training for dogs. If you’re looking for inspiration and practical tips, be sure to check it out!

When it comes to feeding, lick mats and puzzle toys can be great for extending the time it takes for dogs to eat treats or snacks, preventing them from gulping down food too quickly. However, I’m not a fan of using them for mealtimes, as they can cause frustration for some dogs. Instead, reserve these tools for occasional treats or slow feeding snacks to keep your dog entertained while managing their calorie intake.

When it comes to helping your dog lose weight, diet is the most crucial factor. A proper review of their food intake is essential for supporting safe, sustainable weight loss while ensuring they still receive all the nutrients they need to thrive.

Many dogs consume far too many carbohydrates, which can contribute to excess weight gain. As facultative carnivores, dogs primarily require lean, high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass and overall health. That’s why a natural, whole-food diet, such as a raw dog food diet, is the optimal choice for keeping dogs at a healthy weight.

For overweight dogs already on a raw diet, opting for lower-fat cuts of meat supplemented with lightly steamed green vegetables can provide the necessary nutrition while helping them shed excess weight. This combination keeps them feeling full while naturally reducing calorie intake.

If you prefer a hassle-free approach, check out ProDog’s Lower Fat Raw Food Bundle. I’ve carefully selected the meals in this bundle to support dogs needing to lose weight, as well as those requiring a lower-fat diet due to health conditions such as dog pancreatitis.

The answer to this question lies in the fact that a raw diet is a species-appropriate diet. Dry food (kibble) lacks the moisture and essential nutrients that dogs need to thrive. It is often loaded with unnecessary carbohydrates and sugars, which can lead to weight gain and other long-term health issues [3].

On the other hand, a raw diet provides dogs with the balanced nutrition nature intended, ensuring they receive the right mix of lean meat, organs, bones, and small amounts of fruits and vegetables [4]. This approach supports optimal weight while delivering a range of additional health benefits, including:

• Healthier skin and coat
• Stronger immune system
• Fresher breath
• Increased vitality
• Better digestion
• Reduced allergies
• Improved behaviour

If you’re new to raw feeding, our Raw Dog Food for Beginners guide is a great place to start. Plus, the ProDog Nutrition Team offers one-on-one advice and support—contact us today for personalised guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs and goals.

A common question I get asked is: “What can I give my dog for weight loss?” or “Is there a weight loss supplement for dogs?” While there’s no magic pill, for ‘healthy’ weight loss, the right dietary supplements for dogs can play a significant role in supporting healthy weight loss.

With so many products on the market, some of which may do more harm than good, it’s important to do your research. The correct supplementation, when combined with a species-appropriate, balanced diet, can enhance metabolism, improve digestion, and support overall well-being.

Here are some key additions to consider for your dog’s weight loss plan:

Probiotics

The gut microbiome plays a major role in insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, fat storage, and appetite regulation. Adding probiotics supports dog gut health, improving digestion and nutrient absorption. When nutrients are effectively absorbed, your dog is less likely to seek out extra food, making it easier to manage their weight.

Fibrous antioxidant support

Fibre-rich supplements help maintain satiety while providing essential nutrients and antioxidants. Ingredients like seaweed, psyllium husk, fruits, and green vegetables are great natural options. For a specialist gut health supplement for dogs, ProDog Digest supports digestion, boosts beneficial gut bacteria, and helps curb excessive hunger.

Protein supplements

High-quality protein is essential for maintaining lean muscle mass while supporting fat loss. In contrast, many commercial dog foods contain excessive carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain. A protein supplement can help ensure your dog gets the right balance of nutrients while reducing unnecessary calories.

ProDog Perform is an excellent protein supplement for dogs designed to support lean muscle maintenance, energy levels, and overall metabolic health. Perform also includes ginseng, which is scientifically proven to help reduce fat, and improve muscle —making it a great addition to a weight loss plan.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Healthy fats, particularly Omega-3s, play a crucial role in reducing inflammation associated with obesity. Sourced from fish oils and other natural sources, Omega-3s support joint, heart, eye, and cognitive health, while also helping to balance metabolism and reduce the risk of chronic conditions linked to excess weight [6].

For a deeper dive into how supplements can support your dog’s health journey, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Dog Supplements.

When it comes to helping your dog lose weight, it’s essential to focus on safe, sustainable methods, as discussed above, rather than quick fixes. Extreme calorie restriction, excessive exercise, or inappropriate diet choices can do more harm than good.

If you’re unsure about the best approach, always consult a vet or canine nutritionist to ensure your dog’s weight loss journey is both effective and safe.

Below are common mistakes to avoid when helping your dog shed excess weight.

1. Don’t starve your dog

Just like humans, dogs need regular, balanced meals to stay healthy. It’s easy to assume that simply feeding less will result in weight loss, but severe calorie restriction can lead to:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Increased stress and anxiety
• A slower metabolism, making weight loss even harder

Instead of dramatically cutting food intake, focus on feeding the right amount of high-quality, species-appropriate food. If you’re unsure about how much your dog should eat, consult a vet or canine nutritionist for guidance.

Don’t forget—if you need guidance on your dog’s diet, our nutritionist team is ready to help. Contact us today to get your questions answered and receive free expert advice tailored to your dog’s needs.

2. Don’t overdo exercise

Exercise is a great tool for weight management, but too much too soon can put unnecessary strain on your dog’s body. Overweight dogs are more prone to: Joint pain and injuries, dehydration and exhaustion, and reluctance to exercise due to discomfort.

Start slowly and build up activity levels gradually. Low-impact exercises like short walks, swimming, or gentle play sessions are a great way to increase fitness without causing stress. If your dog seems uncomfortable or hesitant, check for underlying pain or mobility issues and consult your vet.

3. Consider health conditions

Some dogs struggle to lose weight due to underlying health conditions, such as:

• Hypothyroidism
• Cushing’s disease
• Metabolic disorders such as dog diabetes

If your dog is following a healthy diet and exercise plan but isn’t losing weight, a vet check-up is essential. The good news? Many dogs with health conditions can still achieve a healthy weight with the right approach, leading to better mobility, energy levels, and overall well-being.

4. Don’t feed “diet” dog food

Many commercial “weight loss” or “diet” dog foods may seem like a good option, but they often contain: Excessive fibre, which makes dogs feel full but lacks nutritional value, low-quality protein, leading to muscle loss instead of fat loss and unnecessary carbohydrates, which can hinder weight loss rather than support it

Sometimes vets recommend these foods, but most conventional veterinary education lacks in-depth nutrition training. For a more effective approach, consult a canine nutritionist or holistic vet such as Dr Nick Thompson or Dr Vicky Simon who understands the importance of feeding a species-appropriate whole food feeding.

A protein rich, raw diet is often the best choice for maintaining lean muscle mass while promoting healthy fat loss. If your dog is struggling with weight, feeding them the way nature intended might be the key to success.

5. Don’t rush the process

Sustainable weight loss takes time. Trying to force rapid results can lead to:

• Muscle loss instead of fat loss
• Metabolic slowdowns
• Stress and behavioural changes

Rushed weight loss is rarely sustainable. Just like with people, yo-yo dieting in dogs can lead to weight regain if their routine isn’t built on solid, long-term foundations. Instead, focus on long-term healthy habits

Helping your dog lose weight should be about building a healthier lifestyle, not quick fixes that could harm their well-being. By feeding a balanced raw diet, managing exercise appropriately, and addressing any underlying health conditions, you can help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight safely.

Helping your dog lose weight can be easier than it seems at first, and though it might take a little time, your canine pal can be feeling like his/her old self again before you know it.

Ready to give raw feeding a try? Our raw dog food sample pack is the perfect place to start. If you’re ready to dive in with raw feeding, ProDog’s lower fat raw dog food bundle is a great option for a balanced, lower-fat diet.

For expert guidance, our nutritionist team is here to help, contact us today, and we’ll walk you through the best choices for your dog’s specific needs.