Many owners notice the same thing a few months after the procedure: the dog eats as much as it always has, yet it starts to put on weight. This is no accident, and it is not because the dog has suddenly started overeating. It is a natural result of the changes that have taken place in its body.
Why dogs gain weight after neutering
After the procedure, that is spaying in a female or castration in a male, the hormonal balance and metabolism change. Energy needs can drop by roughly a quarter, and at the same time many dogs get hungrier.
If the portion stays the same as before, the dog starts to gain weight almost automatically. This is a natural mechanism, not the fault of the dog or the owner.
What to change in your dog’s diet
- Reduce the daily portion or choose a lower calorie food that matches the new, lower energy needs.
- Count treats as part of the daily calorie allowance, rather than treating them as an extra that does not matter.
- Weigh your dog regularly and react early when its weight starts to rise.
You can leave the number of meals as it is for now, as long as it follows the general rules in our guide to how often to feed a dog.
The role of wet food
Wet food contains a lot of water, so for the same number of calories it gives more volume in the bowl. A smaller amount of energy then does not look like a “diet” bowl, which makes it easier to stick to the new portions every day.
We write more about weight loss itself, including how to check whether your dog is overweight at all, in our guide to overweight dogs.
Do not forget exercise
Diet is not everything. Regular activity helps maintain weight and condition after the procedure, and it also supports your dog’s wellbeing. Get back to regular walks and a good dose of exercise as soon as your dog has fully recovered from the procedure, at the pace your vet recommends.
How Veli sets the portion
When you build your bundle, we ask about your dog’s breed, weight, age, activity and body shape. We work out the portion from weight, age and lifestyle, in line with FEDIAF guidelines, so you do not have to count calories yourself. If your dog has started to put on weight after the procedure, select the body shape that tends towards overweight and we will reduce the portion accordingly.
The lowest calorie recipe we offer is Venison + EntoPro™: 94 kcal per 100 g, compared with 123 kcal in the others. Whatever the recipe, weigh your dog regularly and adjust the portion if needed.
Does a dog need to eat less after neutering?
Sometimes, yes, because its energy needs drop. Most often it is enough to reduce the portion or choose a lower calorie food and keep an eye on weight.
What food is best for a neutered dog?
A well balanced food with controlled calories, portioned to match the lower energy needs. Wet food gives more volume in the bowl for the same number of calories.
How can I prevent weight gain after neutering?
Adjust the portion right after the procedure, keep treats in check, make sure your dog gets exercise and weigh it regularly, so you can react early, before the extra kilos start to pile on.
