Obesity

Congestive heart failure

Congestive heart failure is more prevalent in obese dogs than in their leaner counterparts. But the problems go much farther than potential heart disease. The excess weight that an obese dog is forced to carry around can also cause exercise intolerance, not to mention heat intolerance, which can be even more critical in a coated breed such as a Sheltie.

High risk during surgery

Studies indicate that an obese dog may be at a higher surgical risk, too. There’s a lot more tissue in the obese dog and fatty tissue is highly vascular, so there can be more bleeding in surgery. Obese dogs are a higher anesthesia risk and experience a higher rate of death following surgery.

Diabetes and Bladder Cancer

Obesity at an early age (12 months) appears to be a significant risk factor for the development of mammary tumors as the dog ages. Obesity at any stage of life increases a dog’s chances of developing bladder cancer.

Kidney problems

Even a short period of obesity can be harmful. A recent study suggests that already in the early stages of obesity, excess weight causes detrimental changes to the function and structure of the kidneys.

Orthopedic issues

Orthopedic disorders can include herniated intervertebral disks and ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments. Arthritis, which is not uncommon in aging Shelties, is exacerbated with every excess pound. If the Sheltie suffers from any musculoskeletal problems, the extra weight may cause the dog to suffer more pain than a lighter dog.

Skin and immunity problems

Obese dogs reportedly are more likely to suffer from skin problems and may suffer from weakened immune systems.