NEW YORK — There’s no question that pet obesity is a problem in the United States as 56% of dogs are estimated to be classified as overweight or obese. However, startling data reveals that a majority (60%) of dog parents believe their dog is at an ideal weight and are unaware of this problem, according to a new survey by fresh pet food company Ollie.

The research was conducted in July 2024 in partnership with We Are Talker and surveyed 2,000 dog owners. The data details the significant gap between dog owners’ perceptions and the reality of their pets’ health, which Ollie believes could be majorly contributing to the continued pet obesity epidemic. 

According to the survey, the top health concerns dog parents had for their dogs included longevity (31%), joint health or mobility (19%) and digestion or gut health (18%). Weight management was also a top concern for those who owned medium, large and extra-large dog breeds. 

Source: Ollie

When it comes to weight, 26% are worried about their dog becoming obese in the next year, 31% are worried about their small dogs becoming overweight, and 59% are worried about overfeeding their dogs. 

More than half of dog parents surveyed agreed that weight has a significant impact on their pup’s overall health and happiness. Despite this, most pet parents aren’t aware of how to tell if their dog is at an ideal weight. In determining this, 70% of dog owners didn’t know that they should be able to easily feel their pup’s ribs and 80% didn’t know they should also be able to feel their pup’s spine and hip bones as an indictor of a healthy weight. 

Regarding feeding habits, the survey found that more than 25% of dog parents believed that treats should make up for at least half of their dog’s daily diet. For reference, Ollie recommends that treats should only make up of about 10% of a dog’s diet.

With all this in mind, Ollie is determined to do its part in helping address pet obesity. The company offers free dog weight screenings and provides personalized meal plans specifically developed to ensure dogs are getting the right portions and nutrients they need. 

“Dog obesity is a growing health crisis, with long-term effects on a pet’s quality of life, including joint issues, heart disease and shortened lifespans,” the company shared. “Yet, many owners aren’t aware their pets are overweight. This alert serves as a wake-up call for dog parents to take control of their pets’ health with the support of brands like Ollie, which offers personalized meal plans and portion control to ensure dogs maintain a healthy weight.”

Read more about how pet food industry is tackling the pet obesity epidemic.