A Scottish city has been named the "dog obesity capital" of the UK, where more than 80 per cent of dog owners consider their four-legged friends to be overweight. Another city in Scotland also placed second, with experts warning that obesity can reduce life expectancy.
Edinburgh Tops the List
Pet wellbeing company Bella+Duke surveyed more than 2,000 dog owners across the UK to investigate the cities with the healthiest and heaviest pooches. Coming in at number one as the dog obesity capital of the UK is Edinburgh, where a staggering 86 per cent of dog owners consider their pet to be either overweight or obese. This figure marks a significant increase over the UK-wide average of 54 per cent, despite Edinburgh's many picturesque hills and parks.
Popular destinations for dog walks in Edinburgh include The Meadows, Leith Links, and Holyrood Park. Pet owners can also take their four-legged friend to Portobello Beach for a refreshing swim, or even up Arthur's Seat for a vigorous and picturesque hike.
Glasgow Takes Second Place
Glasgow appears at number two on the experts' list of the top dog obesity capitals in the UK. According to Bella+Duke, 67 per cent of people in Scotland's largest city who own a dog think that their pet is overweight or obese—13 per cent higher than the national average. Following behind in third place is Liverpool in England, where 65 per cent of pet owners believe their dog is overweight or obese. Cardiff and Sheffield round out the top five, with 64 per cent and 62 per cent of dog owners respectively saying their pet is overweight.
Expert Advice on Pet Weight
Bella+Duke stated: "Scottish capital, Edinburgh, is famed for its hills and sprawling parks. With so much vertical terrain to explore, you’d expect the city’s pups to be in peak condition. However, Edinburgh takes the top spot in our report with 86 per cent of dog owners considering their dog overweight, 32 per cent higher than the UK’s average." The company added: "The ever-popular West Highland Terrier is a common sight here. A healthy ‘Westie’ should weigh between 7 and 10 kilograms. If your pup is creeping above this, it might be time to swap the extra treats for a brisk lap around Arthur’s Seat!"
Bella+Duke Veterinary Advisor Carolanne Cicero commented: "Our study confirms that dogs are indeed man’s best friend, with 92 per cent of owners admitting that their dog is their best pal. But it’s important to remember that while a few extra pounds can make a dog look ‘extra cuddly,’ excess weight can carry a heavy price for their long-term health."
She added: "Dog obesity isn’t just a surface-level issue; it causes lethargy and limits dogs’ natural mobility. The internal strain on the heart and joints can ultimately lead to arthritis, diabetes, heart conditions, and reduced life expectancy. By moving away from starchy, processed kibbles and prioritising a high-protein, fresh diet, you aren’t just helping them lose weight, you are giving them the fuel they need to enjoy every single walk, game of fetch, and moment of play to the absolute fullest."
Full List of UK's Dog Obesity Capitals
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- Liverpool
- Cardiff
- Sheffield
- Nottingham
- Newcastle
- Stoke
- Belfast
- Bristol
