Obesity is not just a human problem: it is also affecting dogs more and more. In fact, it is estimated that 50% of dogs are overweight, and many pet owners are unaware of the risks this poses to their health. If your dog has gained a few extra kilos, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. But do it right: with proper nutrition, portion control, exercise, and plenty of support.
In this article, we explain how to choose a high-quality light food, why "just giving less food" is not enough, and how certain ingredients can make a difference.
Why is it so important to control your dog’s weight?
Although it sometimes goes unnoticed, being overweight is not a minor issue in dogs. Excess body fat can trigger or worsen many health problems:
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Joint disorders and chronic pain
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Diabetes mellitus
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Respiratory difficulties
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Heart disease
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Fatigue and lack of energy
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Reduced life expectancy
Moreover, being overweight has a strong emotional component: an obese dog feels more tired, moves less, and, in many cases, becomes less sociable. It’s not just their body that suffers; their mood does too.
What should a good light dog food contain?
Reducing calorie intake is not simply about "giving less food" or buying any food labeled "light." The key is to find a formula that, in addition to being low in calories, provides all the necessary nutrients to maintain muscle mass, protect joints, and keep your dog satisfied and happy. Here's what you should look for:
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Sufficient, quality protein
Proteins are essential for maintaining optimal body condition: they help conserve muscle mass while reducing fat. A good light food should have a high-quality protein content, preferably from animal sources. -
Filling fiber
Fiber helps your dog feel full with less food. It also promotes healthy digestion. Ingredients such as chicory root, beet pulp, and other fiber-rich vegetables are great allies. -
Low calorie and fat content
It’s important to reduce the total calories in the food, but without compromising palatability or essential nutrients. Some foods use L-carnitine, an ingredient that helps metabolize fat more effectively. -
Joint care
Many overweight dogs also suffer from joint discomfort. Therefore, light foods should include chondroprotectors such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, or natural ingredients like devil’s claw and turmeric, which help with the inflammatory response.
Ownat’s three solutions for overweight-prone dogs
At Ownat, we believe that nature has the best answers for our dogs' health. That’s why our recipes are made with natural ingredients, fresh meat, and no artificial preservatives or colorants. If your dog is prone to being overweight, these are our three recommendations:
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Ownat Ultra Light
Ideal for medium breeds prone to overweight. It contains 30% fresh turkey in its recipe and is formulated with moderate fat content and high fiber to reduce energy intake without making the dog feel hungry. An excellent option to maintain an optimal body condition. -
Ownat Grain Free Just Light
A grain-free recipe, perfect for dogs that, in addition to needing weight control, have sensitive digestion or adverse reactions to cereals. Its high protein and low fat content make it a very effective option for achieving an optimal weight without losing muscle mass. -
Ownat Care Weight Control
Ownat’s most complete formula for overweight dogs or those prone to gaining weight. It’s formulated with high fiber content for a satiating effect and contains chondroprotectors to protect joints and devil’s claw and turmeric to help with the inflammatory response. It also includes L-carnitine to help mobilize fat and probiotics to keep the intestinal microbiota in optimal condition.
The tutor’s role: much more than filling the food bowl
It’s not enough to just change the food. To help your dog maintain an optimal body condition, you need to be actively involved. Here are some key tips:
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Control portions
Always use a measuring cup or scale. The “eye” often fails, and it’s easy to overfeed without realizing it. Stick to the recommended daily amount according to the ideal weight, not the current weight. -
Reduce treats
Treats should count as part of the daily calorie intake. Avoid giving human leftovers and opt for low-calorie treats or, better yet, playtime, cuddles, and quality time together. -
Increase physical activity
You don’t need to run marathons. Longer walks, more frequent walks, or scent games can make a difference. Plus, going out together benefits both of you.
Shall we start the change?
Helping your dog lose weight is an act of love and responsibility. It’s not about making them starve, but providing them with the food that best suits their needs. Ownat offers several options designed to help dogs prone to overweight maintain their ideal weight, always backed by a philosophy based on nature.
