You\’ve observed that your dog has acquired a significant amount of weight, and you\’re concerned. You\’ve tried everything from increasing your physical activity to lowering your calorie intake, but nothing seems to work. Here are some possible causes for your dog\’s weight gain.

Wrong Food

It\’s not always about how much you\’re feeding the dog, but rather what you\’re feeding him. Every dog has a particular dietary requirement, and getting it right from the start can be tough. Not only does the demand vary by breed, but it also relies on the dog\’s life cycle. A senior dog\’s requirements will be substantially different from those of a growing puppy. It is also dependent on the level of activity, in addition to the stage of life. For instance, the nutritional requirement of a senior dog that’s active will be different from that of an inactive senior dog. It is always wise to consult with a vet to decide on the nutritional requirements of your dog.

Being pregnant

While this may appear to be the most obvious reason, it is frequently disregarded. If your female dog isn\’t spayed, those additional pounds could be puppies. Many dog owners are ignorant of their pet\’s pregnancy status, which is usually quite visible. Pregnancy can be a real reason for the abrupt weight gain in only a few neglected minutes.

Parasites

Internal parasites are one possible cause of unexpected weight gain. Many parasites hook onto the belly walls and intestines, causing fluid to accumulate in the diseased area. Your pet will have a potbellied appearance as a result of the fluid buildup. Because puppies and younger dogs have a growing immune system and are more susceptible to parasitic infestation, this ailment is more common in them.

To diagnose the cause, the veterinarian will conduct a series of tests, including blood and stool samples, to determine the presence of parasites in your pet\’s body. They will carry out the appropriate therapy after confirming the presence of the parasite and determining the precise type of parasite.

Retention of Fluid

One of the reasons your dog may be gaining weight, or at least looking to gain weight, is fluid buildup. One of the negative consequences of heart disease in pets is fluid retention. This gives your pet a potbellied appearance that has nothing to do with his or her food or exercise habits. Aside from heart problems, there are a slew of additional disorders that could be contributing to your pet\’s obesity. The development of a tumor or other disorders in any of their internal organs are examples of this.

Hypothyroidism that has gone undiagnosed

Thyroid glands are glands in the body that create thyroid hormones. These hormones are in charge of allocating energy, which determines the rate at which food is digested and the rate at which the metabolism moves. When this hormone is not produced in the proper amount and the body has too much energy, it impairs the general metabolism, leading to weight gain. Hypothyroidism is the medical term for this condition. It can be perplexing for pet owners to notice that their pet is gaining weight despite eating normally or even less than usual. If they have hypothyroidism, all food energy they consume is stored rather than released.

Coarse hair, lethargy, dry skin, and a sluggish heart rate are all signs of hypothyroidism. In such circumstances, it\’s recommended to see a veterinarian for additional testing and, if necessary, medication.

Bloating

Many dogs have the tendency of swiftly chomping down their meal. This is related to a variety of factors, including their health, personality, living situation, and so on. “Wolfing down” is a term used to describe this type of conduct. This action is frequently observed by pet owners, and it appears as though the dog is swallowing rather than chewing the meal. The dog is also taking in a lot of air when this happens.

This causes a condition known as gastric dilatation or bloat, in which the stomach deals with excess air as well as unchewed food. Bloat can cause an enlarged belly, as well as other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, pain when the abdomen is touched, a fast heartbeat, drooling, or even collapse. This is a life-threatening ailment for dogs that requires immediate medical intervention. Large breeds, such as German Shepherds and Great Danes, are more prone to bloat.

Prescription Drugs

Weight gain in dogs is caused by a variety of drugs. This is common when they\’ve been consumed for a long time. If your dog is on medicine and is gaining weight that isn\’t being controlled despite diet and activity, it\’s possible that the drug is to blame. If this is the case, you should see your veterinarian, who may recommend an alternative prescription.

Summary: If your dog is gaining weight despite your efforts to reduce calorie intake and increase activity levels, you should consider the possibility of a medical problem. This type of weight gain is frequently a warning sign of something wrong, and prompt treatment can save your dog\’s life. With the assistance of a medical specialist, you can determine the best treatment for your dog and determine the cause of their weight gain.