NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Obesity in pets is on the rise with alarming numbers.

Recent data shows that 56% of dogs are overweight in the U.S., which poses serious health risks like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.

“Surprisingly,” said pet wellness expert and CEO of Pet Sprint Angelo Sorbello, “many of these extra pounds may be coming from the foods we unknowingly share with our beloved pets, making it more important than ever for dog owners to scrutinize what’s really in their dogs’ diets.”

Their diets should be treated as more than just a daily routine, since it’s crucial to their overall well-being.

“A balanced diet isn’t just about preventing obesity,” Sorbello continued. “It’s about providing the nutrients your dog needs to thrive.”

The right nutrition can support a pet’s skin, joints, and even mood. However, many foods can disrupt the balance — foods with high fat and sugar contents can lead to weight gain and other issues, like respiratory problems and reduced mobility.

It’s easy to ignore how much dogs are eating, especially when it comes to sharing food that appears to be harmless, but everyday foods could be the cause of the weight gain. Here are eight foods pet owners should not be giving to their four-legged friends:

• Cheese — it’s loaded with fat and calories.
• Bread — it’s packed with carbohydrates that dogs don’t need.
• Peanut butter — it’s high in sugar and calories.
• Cooked meat scraps — lean meat is usually fine, but fatty trimmings and greasy leftovers can add extra calories.
• Dog treats — even these can be calorie bombs if they’re given out to often.
• Hot dogs — these are extremely calorie-dense.
• Ice cream — it’s full of sugar and fat which can add to calorie intake, but it can also cause digestive issues.
• Bacon — it’s high in fat and sodium, leading to weight gain.

All these extra calories can add up fat, and Sorbello stresses that owners should understand the impact of those calories.

“A Labrador Retriever should typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds,” he stated, “and consume about 1,250 to 1,780 calories per day, though these numbers differ slightly for males and females. Just one slice of cheese (113 calories) and a slice of bacon (42 calories) can easily add up to 155 calories — nearly 10-13% of their daily intake.”

Giving these kinds of treats regularly can lead to gradual weight gain.

“A small breed like a Chihuahua, which should weigh around three to six pounds and consume about 200-300 calories daily, can quickly exceed their calorie limit,” Sorbello continued. “For example, a small scoop of ice cream (137 calories) could account for nearly half of their daily calorie needs, making it a significant contributor to weight gain.”

Owners should focus on portion control and choose treats that are low in calories, like carrots or green beans. Exercising regularly is also vital for the well-being of pets. Consulting with a veterinarian is needed to make sure their diets meet their needs.

“A proactive approach to your dog’s diet can prevent many health issues before they start,” concluded Sorbello. “It’s about giving your dog the best chance for a long, happy life.”

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