Just like their human owners, dogs need a healthy diet, plenty of fresh water, and exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Dogs are not Chia Pets, needing just a sprinkling of attention once a day. They need owners who are up to the responsibility of dedicating lots of quality time, love, and attention to their needs. We’ve compiled a list of dog breeds that tend to become small, fat dogs if not monitored.
1. Dachshund (Miniature)
Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food. Read more about Dachshunds.
2. Havanese
If you’re unsure whether he’s overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. Read more about Havanese dogs.
3. Miniature Pinscher
Keep your Min Pin in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Read more about Pinschers.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Here’s a guy who loves his food, and he can become a small fat dog if he’s not fed properly and exercised enough. Read more about Schnauzers.
5. Norfolk Terrier
It’s been said that the Norfolk will eat anything that doesn’t eat him first. Read more about Norfolk Terriers.
6. Norwich Terrier
The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference–the better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog and the less of it you’ll need to shake into your dog’s bowl. Read more about Norwich Terriers.
7. Pocket Beagle
How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Read more about Beagles.
8. Pug
While the Pug’s first love is human attention, his second love is food. Read more about Pugs.
9. Schipperke
Schipperkes are small and have the potential to gain weight. Read more about Schipperkes.
10. Schnoodle (Toy & Miniature)
Keep your Schnoodle in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Read more about Schnoodles.
With proper diet and exercise, these small dogs should be fit and healthy. If you are thinking about getting a dog, please check your area for shelters and breed-specific rescues.
