Overweight Dogs in Australia: Why Exercise is the Missing Puzzle Piece

Did you know over 56% of pet dogs in Australia are considered overweight or obese? That’s more than 1 in 2 dogs walking around with extra weight—putting their health, happiness, and even their behaviour at risk.

If you're noticing your dog is looking a little rounder or acting out more than usual, it might be time to take a closer look at their fitness routine (or lack thereof).

📊 The Stats Don’t Lie: Pet Obesity is on the Rise

• 56% of dogs are overweight or obese in Australia (PetSure, 2022)

• Obesity is linked to reduced lifespan (by up to 2.5 years!)

• Joint issues, heart disease, diabetes, and heat intolerance are all associated with excess weight

• Many overweight dogs show signs of frustration, boredom, and behavioural issues

These numbers are alarming, but here’s the good news: you can turn it around with simple, consistent changes.

💪 Why Exercise is About More Than Just Weight Loss

While exercise helps your dog shed kilos, the benefits go well beyond the waistline:

✅ 1. Improved Behaviour

A tired dog is a good dog. Dogs with pent-up energy often show unwanted behaviours like:

• Barking excessively

• Digging

• Destructive chewing

• Escaping or attention-seeking

Regular exercise helps burn off excess energy, decreasing these behaviours and boosting your dog’s mental health.

✅ 2. Stronger Joints and Muscles

Extra weight puts strain on your dog’s joints. Low-impact activities like walking, hydrotherapy, or using a slat mill can help strengthen muscles and protect joints without causing damage.

✅ 3. Better Mood and Focus

Physical activity releases feel-good endorphins, reducing anxiety and improving your dog’s ability to focus during training. Many reactive or anxious dogs benefit greatly from structured exercise.

✅ 4. Stronger Bond

Training walks, structured play, and fitness games improve your relationship with your dog. You’re working together, communicating, and building trust.

🐾 Getting Started: What Counts as “Exercise”?

Not all exercise is equal—playing fetch in the backyard is great, but a structured fitness plan is better. Options include:

• Daily walks or hikes

• Slat mill or treadmill training

• Agility or scent detection games

• Resistance work (drag work or weight pulls)

• Group fitness challenges (like our Flip the Fit Switch challenge!)

Even 20–30 minutes a day can make a massive difference to your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing.

❤️ Don’t Wait — Start Moving Today

If your dog is overweight, easily bored, reactive, or just plain zoomy at home—exercise is your secret weapon. Combined with good nutrition and mental stimulation, a regular fitness routine will help your dog live longer, behave better, and feel happier.

Ready to help your dog flip the fit switch? 📩 Contact Dogs & Deadlifts today and let's build a better, healthier dog—together.

56% of pet dogs in Australia are considered overweight