Worried You’re Overfeeding? Here Are 5 Signs Your Dog Is Overfed

Most dogs have the sweetest little faces and those big, longing eyes that just beg you to cave to their every desire. I’ve given into them more than a few times, even though I know I shouldn’t. But the big problem with giving in and letting them have whatever they want is that it can lead to a chunky dog – just like overfeeding them. 

Overfeeding is very common in breeds like Corgis. It’s so easily done, especially since they seem like bottomless pits when they’re eating. The truth is that we often forget that they are only small and they don’t need as much food as, say, a Labrador to keep going. I’m here to let you know what the main signs are for your dog being overfed and what you can do about it. 

Key Takeaways

• Overfeeding is common in several breeds, including Corgis
• Gaining weight and struggling to lose it is a very common sign
• They might leave food in their bowls 
• Digestive issues are very common signs of overfeeding 
• Keeping your dog on a diet and getting plenty of exercise is how to stop it

Is Overfeeding Common?

Overfeeding is actually very common – particularly in breeds like Corgis, who have a bottomless appetite. You should always consider the number of treats they get during the day when measuring their food each day. Keep in mind that an adult Corgi usually only needs ½-¾ cup of kibble each day, depending on their size and weight. However, the best way to determine the quantity is to speak with your vet about their diet. 

Overfeeding can cause a number of health issues in your dog. It can lead to obesity, which puts more pressure on their internal organs and can cause serious (even fatal) heart problems. It can also lead to diabetes and increased pressure on their joints, which can cause issues with their bones or worsen conditions such as arthritis. 

What Are The 5 Signs Your Dog Is Overfed? 

If you’re worried that you might be overfeeding your dog but aren’t entirely sure, there are some classic signs you can look out for. If you have noticed any of these in your stumpy pal, you might be overfeeding them and you may need to reassess their diet. 

1. They’re Gaining Weight 

This is one of the most obvious signs. If you see that your Corgi is starting to gain weight and their waistline is beginning to balloon, they might need a diet. Corgis love to eat, and many dogs don’t have a stop button, which means they will eat absolutely everything they can. A good diet and exercise plan can help tackle those extra pounds. 

2. They Have Low Energy Levels

Overfeeding your Corgi doesn’t necessarily mean they have extra energy. In fact, overfeeding often leads to lethargy and fatigue, which causes them to sleep more. They may also get tired much faster when exercising and lose interest in playing. This is because they are too full, and their digestive system is working harder to get through it all. 

3. They’re Leaving Food 

If your Corgi starts leaving food and doesn’t finish their meal, this is a sign that they might be overfed. Some dogs know when to stop but most of the time, being unable to finish their meal is a sign they are being overfed and too full. The same goes for dogs who eat well and are still begging for treats. 

4. They Have Digestive Issues 

Many Corgis who are overfed end up with digestive issues. It might be stools that get looser throughout the day or more uncomfortable problems such as excessive flatulence. They may even end up with vomiting or indigestion if they have a particularly large meal and are too full. Either way, irregular poops are a classic sign of overfeeding, so watch out. 

5. They’re Struggling To Lose Weight 

Struggling to shed the extra pounds is a clear sign they are eating too much. Your Corgi should be able to run around happy and free without loads of excess weight dragging them down. If they are being overfed, that means they aren’t going to be able to lose weight, which means you need to cut down the portions and help them get back in shape. 

What To Do About Overfeeding

Thankfully, overfeeding is a very simple issue to solve. You can start by cutting back on the number of treats they have every day and reducing their portion sizes at meal times. You should also avoid feeding them any scraps from the table as this can play a big role in their weight gain. It’s hard, but you have to resist their sweet little faces. 

Switching to a food that is high-quality and low in calories can also be a good move. It helps ensure your Corgi isn’t eating too much while keeping them nourished. You can do the same with their treats, as this allows you to continue training without losing the reward (just remember that you still need to adjust their main meal accordingly). 

Your vet can also help you come up with a diet plan and nutrition guide to get you both started. Carrots and broccoli also make excellent treats for their teeth while reducing calories. If you’re unsure, your vet can guide you on all the best snacks for your Corgi. Outside of that, it’s all about making sure they get plenty of exercise. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Long Does It Take For A Dog To Recover From Overeating?

If a dog ends up overeating and causes themselves bloat, it usually takes around 24 hours for them to recover from it. This is usually after a dose of aggressive fluid therapy to help get rid of the bloat, and it’s one of the main reasons why you need to be careful about overfeeding your dog – especially in one sitting. 

What Happens If You Accidentally Overfeed Your Dog?

Overfeeding on occasion happens, and it’s not usually something to worry about. They won’t gain loads of weight overnight, and sometimes they might throw up if it was a particularly large meal and it didn’t sit right in their stomachs. Overeating that causes bloat is usually the result of eating copious amounts of food without being stopped, so one overfeeding session is fine. 

Can Dogs Get Food Bloat? 

Yes, dogs can get food bloat. It is not exclusive to specific breeds, and it is possible for any dog to get it from overeating. It needs to be treated within an hour or two of developing to avoid it becoming fatal, and it is more common in dogs who have deep and broad chests. Typically, this is also more commonly seen in larger dogs. 

Final Thoughts

Overfeeding your dog regularly can cause plenty of health issues, including obesity and diabetes. I understand how easy it is to do, and we have all been guilty of overfeeding at one point. The important thing is that we recognise that it happened so we can tackle it before it becomes a major issue. 

There is an obesity crisis in several dog breeds, including Corgis, and this isn’t something that can be denied. Their stumpy little legs aren’t made for masses of weight, and they need a strict diet and plenty of exercise to stay in shape. It might be hard at first, especially with those big eyes, but it’s important for their health and wellbeing. We’ve got to take care of them, after all.