Is your dog a couch potato? You aren’t alone. Unfortunately, less active dogs often become overweight or obese. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, at least 59 percent of dogs in the United States weigh too much. 

Pet parents may be unaware that their dog is a couch potato. Your dog may seem happy and comfortable without health issues, but that won’t be forever. The good news is that the best time to help move your less active dog is now. This article will guide you through simple steps you can do right away, along with long-term plans to help your couch potato become a healthier, more active version of themselves.

Signs Your Dog Might Be a Couch Potato

For each of the following statements, answer true or false:

1. My dog sleeps excessively daily (more than 15 hours daily). 
2. He isn’t interested in playing or exercising for long, if at all.
3. Has gained weight or is obese. Here’s how to tell if your dog is overweight.
4. He isn’t fond of going for walks or spending much time outside.
5. He seems bored or gets into trouble chewing furniture or barking excessively.
6. Pants heavily, even on shorter walks.
7. Has developed more health issues that may be related to weight. 

If you answered true to two or more of the above statements, your dog may be a couch potato. And there’s nothing wrong with that. Admitting there is an issue is the first step to changing things for the better. 

Common Reasons Dogs Become Less Active 

As dogs age, they may naturally slow down, but that doesn’t apply to all dogs, and it doesn’t mean they should stop moving and being active. These are the most common reasons dogs become couch potatoes:

Age-Related Changes

Dogs may slow down as they age and may experience joint issues, arthritis, muscle pain, or any health-related issues. Older dogs may also prefer to crash on the couch or bed over playing or exercising. 

Health Issues

No matter how old your dog is, they may not be as active if they have health issues. For example, joint pain, a heart condition, an injury, a broken nail, a sore muscle, or an underactive thyroid can slow a dog down. Dogs can’t speak, so pet parents must know their dog's normal baseline. That way, when something seems out of the ordinary, you can act on it. Dogs are good at hiding pain, so always get regular veterinary checkups and blood draws. 

Pro Tip: A broken tooth or oral issues may cause a dog to lose interest in activities and eating.

If you’ve ever gained weight, you know how it might make you feel sluggish or less active. Overweight dogs may shy away from a comfy couch in favor of moving or going for a walk, playing, etc.

Owner is Too Busy

Dogs who are alone for long periods or don’t get much interaction may become bored and frustrated. Frustrated dogs often bark excessively, chew furniture, or regress to sadness. 

Stress or Anxiety

According to a study published in Science Alert, dogs can often sense their owners’ stress and “catch” the vibe. Additionally, being left alone for long periods or being exposed to stress at home can worsen things. A dog may feel like doing nothing, fearing what may happen next. 

Breed Tendencies

Some breeds, such as Bulldogs, Mastiffs, and Basset Hounds, have lower energy levels overall. Being less active doesn’t mean not being active at all. 

Poor Nutrition 

Diets lacking proper nutrients can lead to health issues, food fatigue, and even boredom. It’s an old myth that dogs can eat one food entirely for their lives. Imagine being fed the same food and flavor over and over for 12-18 years. Fortunately, there are things pet parents can do. 

Pro Tip: Here’s how to read a dog food label like a pro.

Medications or Treatments

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as vitamins and supplements, can have side effects. These include lethargy, drowsiness, and dry mouth. 

Simple Ways to Help Get Your Dog Moving

Now, the good news. Dogs become less active for various reasons, but there are many things you can do to make healthy changes today. 

Talk to your veterinarian first before starting any new exercise or movement program. They can do a thorough checkup and testing to ensure your dog is ready to get active. 

Start with simple beginner activities, no matter your dog’s age. The word ‘active’ doesn’t mean jogging three miles a day. It can if that’s your jam, and most importantly, your dog enjoys it. 

1. Start with a short walk around the block or down to the end of the street and back.
2. If your dog isn’t fond of neighborhood walks, drive to your dog’s favorite location, such as a local park, and sit outside together. Let your dog get some sunshine and air.
3. Engage with your dog by playing indoor games like canine puzzles. Use treats like steamed green beans, carrots, or kibble as rewards. 
4. Mix up your walking path so your dog gets new sniffs and sights. 
5. If your dog enjoys the company of other pups, arrange playdates with friends. 
6. Make indoor activities fun, such as dog-safe bubble blowing, tossing a ball, or playing hide and seek indoors. 
7. Consider these indoor games and activities for dogs if it's cold or rainy. 
8. Take a day trip and have an outdoor picnic. 
9. Take a weekend trip and get a hotel room. Dedicate the weekend to spending one-on-one time with your dog.
10. If your dog is amenable and able, progress to longer walks, longer play sessions, and more advanced activities like swimming, which is a low-impact way to get them to exercise. Not all dogs like water, so never force them to do something.

The Role of Nutrition in Supporting Your Dog

Take a good, hard look at the food your dog presently eats. Is it time for a change? Does it include high-quality protein, healthy fats, and natural ingredients, and is it human-grade? Would you eat it? 

Fortunately, Elevate Pet Provisions owns its supply chain. The end result is air-dried food from grass-fed cattle. Featuring only nine ingredients, this shelf-stable food travels well, is nutritious, and is designed for the pickiest eaters. Here’s why nutrition is fundamental to your dog’s overall health:

• It provides essential energy that dogs need to sustain their energy. 
• It helps maintain muscle and joint health. 
• It supports a healthy weight with portion control.
• It boosts digestive health and promotes a healthy microbiome. 
• It helps to boost immunity and enhances immune function for good health. 
• It helps to support and improve coat and skin health.

Portion control is important because too much of a good thing is never a good thing. 

When to Seek Additional Support 

None of us are mind readers, and dogs tend to hide symptoms when they don’t feel well. Here’s when to seek help from a veterinarian or other canine health professional:

• Sudden activity level changes
• Persistent inactivity 
• Behavioral changes such as growling or not wanting to move when coaxed
• Age-related concerns that can be addressed with treatment(s)
• Your dog isn’t interested in eating or drinking

Never second-guess what your dog may be feeling. He may seem like a couch potato, but something else could be causing his lack of interest in getting active.