Too Many Treats? 10 Clues Your Dog Might Be Eating Too Much

Dogs love food, and let’s be honest—it’s hard to resist those pleading eyes. But too much of a good thing can lead to unexpected issues. Overfeeding isn’t just about a little extra fluff; it can impact your dog’s energy and overall well-being in ways you might not expect. So, if you’ve noticed these subtle changes, it might be time to take a closer look.

Weight Gain And Belly Bloat

Has your dog’s waistline expanded recently? Unchecked and sudden weight gain is one of the most obvious signs of overfeeding. When you notice that their belly has grown noticeably, it’s time to evaluate portion sizes and make adjustments to their diet.

Sluggish Energy Levels

An overfed dog often lacks the energy they once had. Excess weight puts a strain on their body, and makes them less enthusiastic about walks and playtime. This is especially concerning for high-energy breeds. So, don’t take it lightly if your once zoomy loving pup suddenly decides to become a couch potato.

Digestive Issues

Frequent vomiting or diarrhea might occur in dogs that are overfed. The digestive system struggles to cope with large portions or poor-quality food. But starving your dog is not the solution here. Rather, consider smaller, more frequent meals and a diet change that better suits their needs.

Joint Discomfort Or Limping

Limping, stiffness, or hesitation before jumping on the couch? Extra weight could be putting too much pressure on those joints. Help ease the strain and keep them at a healthy weight with portion control and regular walks. Their joints (and their energy levels) will thank you.

Behavioral Changes

Has your dog been more irritable or restless lately? Although not always the case, overfeeding could be a symptom. Too much food is not always appetizing, and it can leave your dog restless or even aggressive. If you notice this, try a controlled feeding routine that may help improve their temperament.

Dull Skin And Coat

Overfeeding doesn’t always mean your dog is getting the right nutrients. In some cases, an imbalanced diet can lead to a dull coat and dry skin. Even with extra food, if key nutrients are missing, their fur may lose its natural shine.

Frequent Panting

When a dog carries excess weight, its natural cooling system struggles to function properly. Heavy panting is a sign that the body is working harder to compensate, which can lead to overheating and increased fatigue.

Changes In Sleep Patterns

Overfed dogs may sleep more than usual. It is a coping mechanism where digestion can increase when the body is at absolute rest. Although not always, if your dog suddenly seems to be napping all day, it could be a sign that their body is struggling to process all the food.

Increased Thirst And Urination

Too much food, especially kibble loaded with carbs and salt, can throw off your dog’s hydration. They’ll drink more to balance things out, which means extra bathroom trips. This sudden thirst and frequent urination can sometimes seem like a bigger health issue, like the onset of diabetes and kidney disease.

Unusual Body Odor

If regular grooming isn’t fixing the funk, overfeeding could be part of the problem. Excess weight creates moisture-trapping skin folds, making it easy for bacteria to grow. Poor diet choices can also cause internal imbalances, leading to smelly breath, gas, and overall body odor.