Feeding guidelines printed on bags are calibrated for intact active dogs, causing 60% obesity

Pet food bag feeding guidelines are formulated for intact (un-neutered), young, active dogs, but 85% of pet dogs in the U.S. are spayed or neutered and most live sedentary indoor lives, meaning the printed portions deliver 20-30% more calories than these animals need daily. This systematic overfeeding has driven pet obesity to 56% of dogs and 60% of cats, cutting 2+ years off lifespan and causing diabetes, joint disease, and heart failure. The problem persists because manufacturers have a financial incentive to recommend larger portions since it increases purchase frequency, there is no regulatory requirement to differentiate feeding guidelines by activity level or neuter status, and veterinarians see pets too infrequently to catch gradual weight gain before it becomes clinical obesity.