Confession: My childhood dogs were obese

Today I know more about canine health

I grew up with two Bichons named Larry and Lucy. They were goofy and snuggly and delightful, and we loved them more than anything in the world.

They were also obese. I’m not talking a little baby fat or extra fluff. Their weight was, plain and simple, unhealthy.

While it didn’t seem like a big deal in their younger years, both of my childhood dogs ended up with joint problems exacerbated by their extra pounds.

Their weight wasn’t just a superficial concern — it had a lasting impact on their overall wellbeing. And we, as their owners, could have prevented it.

We didn’t know any better

When my family got our dogs, we walked them almost every day, poured a recommended amount into their food bowls according to the kibble bag, and mostly ignored the vet’s comments about how they were a “little hefty”.

Sure, we knew they could stand to lose a few pounds — but we didn’t realize it was such a big deal. I mean, they didn’t look much fatter than most of our friends’ pets!

Unfortunately, that was a big…