It is something that many dog owners do daily.
But new research might make you think twice before hiding your dog’s leftovers under the table.
Study reveals human foods that could be making your pet fat, including grilled salmon and scrambled eggs.
“Most of us don’t realize how calorie-dense our pet foods can be,” said Pet Range spokesperson Lisa Melvin.
“This is especially the case for smaller dogs and breeds more prone to obesity, such as pugs and Labradors. For small dogs like pugs, a single sausage can account for almost half of the recommended daily calorie intake.
A new graphic might make you think twice before hiding your dog’s leftovers under the table. The chart reveals human foods that could be making your pet fat, including grilled salmon and scrambled eggs.
| dog weight | Recommended calories |
|---|---|
| XS: 2kg – 5kg (Ex. Chihuahua) | 247 |
| S: 5kg – 10kg (e.g. Pug) | 440 |
| M: 10kg – 20kg (Ex. Beagle) | 739 |
| L: 20kg – 30kg (Ex. Dalmatian) | 1092 |
| XL: 30kg – 40kg (e.g. Labrador Retriever) | 1408 |
| XXL: 40 kg – 50 kg (e.g. Rottweiler) | 1701 |
Britain is in the midst of an “overweight epidemic” in dogs, with its vets recording that one in 14 puppies is overweight each year.
One possible reason for these high rates is that owners treat their pets with human foods, without knowing how this may affect their diet.
In its study, Pet Range analyzed the recommended daily calorie intake for dogs of different sizes.
Dogs classified as extra small, such as Chihuahuas, need only 247 calories a day, while small dogs, such as pugs, need an average of 440 calories.
Medium dogs, such as Beagles, need 739 calories, while large dogs, such as Dalmatians, need 1,092 calories.
Britain is in the midst of an “overweight epidemic” in dogs, with its vets recording that one in 14 puppies is overweight each year (file image)
Finally, extra-large dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers, need 1,408 calories, while extra-extra-large dogs, such as Rottweilers, need 1,701.
Based on these figures, Pet Range analyzed the percentage of calories in popular human leftovers or adult dogs.
While two rashers of bacon may seem like a reasonable serving for a dog, analysis reveals how this equates to 58.5 percent of XS dogs’ daily calories.
Even for XXL dogs, this serving size equals 8.5 percent of your daily calorie recommendation.
Two other popular meats, sausages and roast chicken, can also make your dog gain weight.
One thick sausage consumes 27 percent of a small dog’s daily calories, 16 percent of a medium dog’s calories, and 11 percent of a large dog’s calories.
However, research reveals that it is not just meat that can be highly caloric for dogs.
If you have leftover scrambled eggs from breakfast, the equivalent of a single egg can consume 31 percent of the calories of an extra small dog.
Meanwhile, a tablespoon of cheddar cheese can account for 10 percent of a small dog’s daily calories.
“Many of us don’t realize how many diseases can be related to excess weight,” Ms. Melvin said.
“From bone health to heart health and just overall well-being, obesity can take a huge toll on your pet.”
If you have noticed that your dog has gained excess weight, fortunately there are several things you can do to help him get back in shape.
“To help your pet lose weight in a healthy and sustainable way, make sure he eats large, balanced meals and enjoys his food in moderation,” added Ms Melvin.
‘It’s always a good idea to consult a vet if you are concerned about your pet’s weight.
‘Every dog is different and, just like humans, they all have different nutritional needs.
“Whether your furry friend is a puppy or an adult, check with your veterinarian before making any major changes to their diet.”