Effects of caloric restriction and different diet types on weight loss, metabolic profile and behavior of overweight and obese dogs.

Caloric restriction produces similar ~4.5% weight loss in dogs regardless of commercial, homemade, or mixed diet type.

This prospective clinical study evaluated weight loss outcomes, hematological and biochemical parameters, and behavioral changes in 34 overweight or obese dogs managed under caloric restriction for approximately 104 days. Dogs were divided into three dietary groups: commercial dry food (n=9), homemade food (n=9), or mixed feeding (n=16). Initial metabolizable energy was calculated using resting energy requirement (70 kcal × kg BW⁰·⁷⁵), with monthly adjustments and clinical evaluations. All three dietary groups achieved comparable mean body weight loss of approximately 4.5%, demonstrating that caloric deficit, rather than diet composition, is the primary driver of weight reduction. Most hematological and biochemical parameters did not differ significantly between groups; however, serum triglycerides were notably lower in the homemade food group despite its higher fat content, and HDL concentrations increased across all groups over time, suggesting a positive influence on lipid metabolism. Behavioral assessments via owner questionnaires revealed differences among groups: dogs on mixed diets demonstrated higher frequencies of fatigue, difficulty with physical activity such as running or climbing stairs, and reduced play behavior. Despite these findings, dogs across all groups were generally described as joyful and interested in walks, though predominantly classified as moderately active. The authors conclude that while moderate caloric restriction promotes weight loss and may favorably influence lipid metabolism, the approximately 4.5% weight reduction achieved over 104 days was insufficient to produce marked functional or behavioral improvements in overweight and obese dogs.

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