overweight

Unfortunately, dogs don`t cope well with being overweight and they can often feel vulnerable as they will know they are physically weaker than other dogs they might meet out on walks and being at a disadvantage physically can create negative behavours.

They are unable to play and live their life to their full capability or go for walks without discomfort from being overweight. Not to mention the huge effect it has on their health and how their weight might worsen other conditions they have, such as elbow or hip dysplasia.

Image by Southeastern Guide Dogs. Please note that BelMar Canine Massage Therapy is not affiliated with Southeastern Guide Dogs.

Dogs that are overweight could face the following health concerns:

  • Decreased life span

  • Arthritis

  • Increased chance of joint issues

  • Luxating patella

  • Hip Dysplasia

  • Skin Disorders

  • Breathing difficulties

  • Diabetes

  • Liver problems

  • Poor digestion

  • Cardiovascular and heart problems

Image by Dogsee. Please note that BelMar Canine Massage Therapy is not affiliated with Dogsee.

Muscular issues can stop a dog from wanting to exercise or exercising to their full potential. It may hurt them to do long stints of exercise so this pain-soreness-pain cycle can prevent them from wanting to do the exercise they need to help with their weight and to help with their mental health. It is exactly the same for humans, if we had a sore back would we want to go out and exercise, or play sports? Probably not, but we know that movement can help reduce the pain we feel so it is important to be able to contonue movement and exercise to help improve our mental wellbeing.

how can massage help with obesity?

  • Softening and making muscles more flexible can reduce your dogs discomfort

  • Releasing trigger points (look out for twitches and flinches along your dog’s back and sides)

  • Ensuring muscles can work independently of eachother, which makes them work more efficiently with eachother

  • Decreasing levels of soreness and stiffness

  • Relieving connective tissue restrictions

  • Increasing circulation and draining lymph

  • Improved comfort, mobility, and flexibility

  • A desire to exercise more, to burn more calories and stored fat

  • Helps to increase the comfort levels and mental health of your dog