The American Beagler Forum

Does being Overweight slow a dog down (footspeed) he is over by about 7 to 10 pounds maybe a little more.
Thanks

Guess being overweight can effect dogs differently. I have a fat female - never have been able to slim her up since I had her fixed. She probably is just about the same foot speed (6 - 7) being overweight. The main thing I notice is her endurance is much lower. So from my experience I would say no it does not effect footspeed that much, but definately does effect endurance.

I have heard that a dog being 5 lbs overweight is like a human being 25 lbs over. Also it will shorten the life of most dogs by 2 to 4 years. I feed Diamond and do not over feed, but still have a couple of dogs that hold the same weight regardless of season. Both dogs to me are overweight but others say they are just right. I feed 1 cup per dog in the winter and 1/2 cup per dog in summer. I have cut the feed on two of my females down until they look the way I want them to look. I think Bev said once it is harder to take weight off than it is to put it on. I think with a spade female you really have to be careful or you will have a problem.

I agree with NC Beagler. You would think it would effect their speed but I've never had it proved to me yet. It definately effects their endurance though! By a long shot! Another thing I learned in the last year is the type of food, effects their endurance and weight more than anything else. I've been paying attention to not by corn-based dog food the last 8 months or so and the difference is unbelievable. They are all completely different dogs on the better dog foods. Way way more energy, they look a ton better, way more muscle tone! And I feed far less, I think I actually save money by buying the better dog food. I'll never feed a corn-based dog food again. Chicken or Beef. I learned that here on this board.