There are many animal lovers out there who care deeply for their dogs, and want to be on the up and up in case something goes wrong. They may be worried if their dog suddenly starts to gain weight, and want to know what's going on. Although overweight dogs can still be extremely cute, loveable, and funny -- and of course a man's (and a woman's) best friend, many overweight and obese dogs can develop some serious health problems, some of which can be fatal--and nobody wants that for their beloved pet. Here are a few things that you should be made aware of if you notice a rapid weight change or gain in your dog. If you do notice a rapid weight change in your dog, make sure you schedule an appointment with your local vet as soon as possible about the problem.

Diabetes

Even if you don't believe it, dogs can develop diabetes, just as humans can. Ironically, they are treated the same way. Diabetes in dogs is somewhat common among older dogs, and the older, female dogs are especially susceptible. However, any breed of male or female dog can develop diabetes. If the diabetes is left untreated, the dog's diabetes might lead to blindness, heart problems, and other ailments. Dogs with diabetes will suffer from an insulin deficiency, which causes them to be incapable of burning sugar. This will lead to abnormal weight gain. The treatment for dogs' diabetes is insulin shots, the same as humans.

Heart Disease

Dogs with heart disease can and do tire very easily. A dog's obese heart will be forced to work harder to deliver oxygen through the blood stream to its tissues. Fat cells will clog the arteries, and that restricts blood flow to the dog's vital organs. When the heart cannot get enough blood to the tissues, heart failure can occur, and that will usually result in the animal’s death. Roundworms can also cause heart disease in dogs, but this can be ruled out with a simple test by your vet. (Once they are treated, roundworms are usually nothing to worry about. Heart disease, however, is extremely serious and should be taken as such.

Digestive Problems

Dogs that are overweight can have digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence. Indoor dogs with diarrhea will have a harder time waiting to be taken inside, and they will often unintentionally go inside the house, being unable to hold it in any longer. This is an extra hassle to the dog owner, who now must take the dog out more regularly, or clean up extra accidents--and it's also very hard on someone who has to work all day and cannot make extra trips outside the house constantly for the dog. Anyone who has a dog who has or has had flatulence knows how unpleasant this can make your house smell—not to mention the extra work of cleaning up all the new accidents. If you notice a change in your dog's digestive or eating habits, you should make a vet appointment with your vet as soon you possibly can.

Respiratory Problems

The extra fat that obese dogs can restrict the lungs of the animal, which is dangerous. If the dog has excess fat, it will push against the diaphragm and separate the chest from the abnormal cavity. Dogs do not have sweat glands, so they excrete (or get rid of) heat by panting. Dogs who weigh more have an additionally rough time in the hot summer months, since it is much hotter, and you sweat to cool down. If your outside dog is overweight, make sure it has a shady spot and plenty of water. Even if it isn't overweight, you should still make sure it has plenty of water and a shady spot to rest. Dogs need to be given water at least twice a day, and you should never run with a dog who has respiratory problems as it will overwork the dog and possibly introduce new risks.

Damage to the ligaments, joints, & bones

Over time, the dog’s extra weight of obese dogs will put a strain on the animal’s ligaments and joints. An older, overweight dog will not have the energy or stamina for running and jumping as much as they used to have. Arthritis can also develop in these joints, making rapid movements painful for your dogs. Some breeds of dogs can even get slipped a disc, which is tremendously painful for your beloved pet.  Orthopedic dog beds will help them with this pain but it is best to prevent it.

Obese dogs have many more problems than just not being able to fit into their attractive dog clothes that you just bought the day before. Fit dogs will lead more active and healthier lives and as an added bonus to you, they get live longer. And, if they drop enough weight, you won’t even have to ditch your old dog clothes they’ll be able to fit them again.

However, if your dog suddenly starts having a rapid weight change, or has started to have rapid weight change, you should make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible to help conquer the problem, and you should do this as soon as possible for your dog's sake.