Is Fat on a Dog's Chest Normal?

Is Fat on a Dog’s Chest Normal?

My grandma’s dog is not a real good eater, but he is fat. We have found fat on his chest that none of her other dogs have. Is this problem fixable?

– Corrie

Hi Corrie,

Many overweight dogs will start to deposit fat in unusual places and have a higher likelihood of developing lipomas, which are fatty deposits under the skin that feel like lumps or tumors. Even some breeds of dog that are not overweight can develop these fatty deposits as they get older.

However, any lump or bump should be evaluated by your veterinarian because there are many types of cancer that can look and feel like a lipoma but are actually much more sinister. Your veterinarian can perform a fine needle aspiration or a biopsy to determine if this is something you need to be concerned about or need to have removed.

In addition, you should talk to your grandma about the importance of keeping her dog leaner so that he can live a longer, healthier life. Obesity is the No. 1 problem in pets and is also the most underrecognized problem. So many people just assume their pet is healthy because it has a good appetite or use the excuse that the pet is actually really fluffy and not overweight. Unfortunately, fat releases inflammatory hormones into the body and can affect almost every organ system. It can predispose dogs to multiple musculoskeletal diseases, spinal injuries, diabetes, liver disease and cardiorespiratory disease.

Team up with your veterinarian and do your best to convince your grandma that it’s not healthy for her. Your vet can help her work out a plan to get her dog in better shape.

PHOTO: nomoretreats.com