Vol. 10, Special Issue 5 (2021)

Author(s):
Gurpreet Singh Preet, Sujata Turkar, Surbhi Gupta and Sumit Kumar

Abstract:
Obesity is a globally growing concern for both veterinarians as well as for pet owners. Obesity usually results from a state of positive energy balance due to either excessive dietary intake or inadequate energy utilization. Risk factors associated with obesity are food types fed, breed, sex, age, sexual status along with other possible social and environmental factors. Obesity not being a disease itself can predispose to number of disorders like osteoarthritis, cardiac-respiratory problem, diabetes mellitus, neoplasia, dermatological disease and anesthetic complications. Various diagnostic approaches for obesity in dogs have been suggested for estimation of obesity in dogs but the most subjective, easiest and handy technique is body condition scoring system. Advanced techniques for diagnosis of obesity include radiography, ultrasound and CT scan. There is no particular drug licensed for management of obesity in dogs. Dietary modifications along with increased exercise and behavioral management are the cornerstone of weight management of dogs.