subject: Obesity And Your Dog's Skin [print this page] Obesity in dogs can cause quite a variety of problems. Most people are aware of the usual problems such as a lack of energy, and having a harder time moving around. However, as we've already mentioned, obese dogs will suffer from most of the same problems that an obese human may have to deal with.
One problem in particular that is often overlooked in both humans and dogs alike are skin problems that can develop due to obesity. Obesity makes it much harder to keep your dog well groomed. Just like an obese human can have a hard time cleaning all the spots on their body due to the excess in fat and skin, a dog owner may also find it more difficult to keep their dog clean.
Obese dogs will often have more skin folds than a leaner dog. As owners try to give their dogs a quick bath, they may find it very easy to miss cleaning between some of the folds. This can become a problem for several reasons. First, the excess in dirt and other debris that can build up over time is very likely to lead to skin irritation. Common signs of irritation are rashes, dry and flaky skin, and increased itching.
Also, it's possible for moisture to accumulate in the skin folds. This increases the risk of bacterial or fungal infection in these areas. Since the infection or irritation of the skin takes place between the folds, an owner may not notice what's happening deep down in the skin crevasses.
Another problem that occurs secondary to obesity is chafing when skin folds rub together. Chafing, if untreated, can become quite painful to your dog. It can also increase the possibility of infection. Chafing due to obesity is more difficult to manage than chafing that may occur elsewhere simply because it is difficult to keep the folds apart to stop the rubbing from continuing.
Treatment for skin fold infections usually involves antibiotic tablets, and medicated shampoos. Chafing can be prevented by using skin lubricants. Make sure that any product you use on your dog's skin is registered for use in dogs. Human products aren't often suitable because they don't take into account the fact that dogs lick themselves and humans don't.
If you do have an overweight or obese dog with skin folds it is very important that you keep a close eye on them and keep them clean and well groomed. Skin problems with obese dogs can quickly escalate and get out of control if they are not managed early.
