Why Extra Weight Hits Big Dogs Harder: The Real Cost of Obesity

When a small dog gains five pounds, it might seem like no big deal. But when your 130-pound Great Dane, Mastiff, Saint Bernard, or Newfoundland is carrying an extra 10, 20, or 30 pounds? That weight isn't just on the scale—it's pressing down on every joint, every step, every system.

And it adds up fast.

Obesity is on the rise in dogs—especially big ones

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 59% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. And while the data isn't always broken out by size, giant breeds are especially vulnerable for a few reasons:

• They're often under-exercised due to their size and mobility challenges
• Many dog parents mistakenly think "a little chunky" is normal for big dogs
• Their size can hide extra pounds more easily
• They're prone to joint issues, which makes movement harder—and weight gain easier

What extra weight really means for big dogs

For giant breeds, being overweight isn't just a cosmetic concern. It has real, measurable impacts on their health and lifespan.

Here are just a few of the risks:

• Joint Damage: Extra weight puts enormous strain on hips, knees, and elbows. This accelerates wear-and-tear and can trigger or worsen arthritis.

• Back & Spinal Issues: Added weight stresses the spine, leading to conditions like intervertebral disc disease or spondylosis.

• Heart Disease: Fat dogs are more likely to develop high blood pressure and cardiac strain, especially in larger breeds.

• Diabetes: Just like in humans, excess weight can lead to insulin resistance.

• Reduced Lifespan: One major study showed that dogs kept at a lean body weight lived up to 2.5 years longer than their overweight counterparts.

And perhaps most importantly:

• Pain and mobility issues come on earlier and hit harder when a dog is carrying more than their frame was designed to handle.

For a dog whose average lifespan is already shorter than smaller breeds, that can make a big difference.

But he doesn’t look fat…

One of the biggest challenges with canine obesity is that it's easy to miss. Especially with thick coats or extra skin, it's hard to tell what's fluff and what's fat. Plus, we're often emotionally attached to the idea that our dog is "just big-boned" or still has their "puppy fat."

Here’s a quick self-check:

• Can you feel ribs easily, without pressing hard? If not, they may be too padded.

• Does your dog have a waist when viewed from above? A defined tuck behind the ribs is ideal.

• Is there a visible belly tuck from the side? Flat or bulging bellies are signs of excess weight.

If you’re unsure, ask your vet for a body condition score (BCS) assessment—a visual + hands-on scale vets use to determine if your dog is underweight, ideal, or overweight.

Why prevention matters more in giant breeds

Because of their size, giant dogs are already predisposed to orthopedic issues. They also age faster. That means every extra pound has greater mechanical impact and less time to do damage before symptoms show.

Once pain sets in, dogs move less. Then they gain more. And the cycle repeats.

Breaking that cycle starts with awareness.

Ready to help your dog live longer, move easier, and feel better?

In part two of this series, we share practical tips to help your giant breed dog maintain a healthy weight—without harsh diets or guilt trips.

It’s not about getting skinny. It’s about helping your dog stay mobile, pain-free, and around longer.

Extra weight hurts. But you can help.