A leading canine rehabilitation expert is calling on pet professionals to be brave and speak up when they see dogs that are dangerously overweight, even if it means having an awkward conversation with an owner.

Angela Day, a respected UK canine rehabilitation specialist and canine educator, says too many dogs are suffering in silence because professionals are afraid of upsetting clients by telling them the truth about their pet’s weight.

With more than half of Britain’s dogs now overweight or obese, Angela warns that silence is not kindness,  and that obesity is a serious animal welfare issue which could be cutting lives short.

“Having a dog who is clinically obese is a welfare issue,” she said. “It’s a painful, progressive disease that can lead to arthritis, diabetes, breathing problems, and heart strain. But the sad truth is, many owners simply don’t realise their dog is overweight, and it’s up to us to help them see it before it's too late.”

Angela is urging vets, groomers, physiotherapists, behaviourists, and trainers to speak up, not shy away.

She added: “We can’t be afraid to have these conversations. If we don’t tell them, who will? We’re in a privileged position to spot the signs early and guide owners to take action. It’s not about blame,  it’s about care.”

Angela’s three tips for breaking the weight conversation gently:

Be visual and practical: Use body condition score charts and hands-on demonstrations to show what a healthy shape looks and feels like. Visual aids can reduce confrontation and help owners see the issue objectively.

Focus on health, not looks: Reframe the conversation around quality of life, longer walks, less pain, better mobility. Make it about helping the dog feel better, not just look slimmer.

Offer support, not shame: Phrase it as a team effort. “Let’s work together to help Max feel more comfortable” is far more effective than “You’re overfeeding him.” Give owners achievable steps, not guilt.

She adds: “It’s not about judging anyone. Most owners love their dogs dearly, they just need guidance. And the good news is, obesity is preventable. With the right support, we can turn it around.”

Angela also shared four simple steps owners can take at home to help their dog slim down safely and sustainably:

Use a body condition score chart: You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without pressing hard, and see a visible waist from above.

Weigh food portions accurately: Use digital scales, even small overfeeds add up.

Cut out unhealthy treats: Swap fatty snacks for carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or low-fat options, and tasty home cooked snacks, 

Get moving: Build short, regular walks and play sessions into your daily routine.

“Helping a dog lose weight isn’t about depriving them,” Angela said. “It’s about giving them the best shot at a long, pain-free, happy life. We owe it to them, and as professionals, we owe it to the people who trust us.”

To find out more about Angela go to https://www.thecanineadvocate.co.uk