7 Healthy Weight Loss Tips for Giant Breed Dogs

If you read our last post, you know the stakes: extra weight on a big dog isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a health risk. Obesity increases the likelihood of joint pain, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers.

The good news? It’s fixable. And even a little weight loss can make a big difference.

Here are 7 weight loss tips to help your big dog get back to a healthier size—without the crash diets or guilt trips.

1. Get a Target Weight from Your Vet

Before making any changes, ask your vet what your dog should weigh. Giant breeds vary so much that there’s no one-size-fits-all number. Your vet can give you a healthy target and help rule out any underlying issues (like hypothyroidism) that might make weight loss harder.

2. Feed for the Weight They Should Be

Most pet parents feed based on the weight their dog is — but if they’re overweight, that just keeps the cycle going. Instead, calculate calorie needs based on their ideal weight. Your vet can help, or you can use online tools like the APOP Calorie Calculator as a starting point.

3. Stick to Measured Meals

Free-feeding (leaving food out all day) makes weight control nearly impossible. Use a measuring cup or kitchen scale to portion out meals and track how much they’re actually eating.

4. Cut Back on Treats

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Opt for low-calorie options like baby carrots, green beans, or small pieces of lean meat. And skip the table scraps—especially for giant breeds where even small extras add up fast.

5. Increase Low-Impact Exercise

Regular, gentle exercise is key. Start with short walks or swimming and work up gradually. Avoid high-impact activities like fetch on hard surfaces, especially for dogs with joint issues.

6. Switch to a Weight-Management Food

If your dog needs a significant calorie reduction, talk to your vet about switching to a weight-control formula. These foods are designed to be lower in calories without skimping on essential nutrients.

7. Support Their Joints

Weight loss is tough on joints—especially when there’s already inflammation or discomfort. Supporting your dog with a high-quality joint supplement can reduce pain and keep them moving comfortably as the pounds come off.

Your Big Dog Deserves to Feel Better

Helping your dog lose weight isn’t about looking a certain way. It’s about protecting their joints, extending their life, and helping them feel like themselves again.

Ready to start? Pick one of the tips above and build from there. And if you missed our first post on the health risks of obesity, read it here.