Use of starting condition score to estimate changes in body weight and composition during weight loss in obese dogs

Prior to starting a weight loss programme, target weight (TW) is often estimated, using starting body condition score (BCS). The current study assessed how well such estimates perform in clinical practice. Information on body weight, BCS and body composition was assessed before and after weight loss...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Research in veterinary science 2009-10, Vol.87 (2), p.249-254
Main Authors: German, A.J., Holden, S.L., Bissot, T., Morris, P.J., Biourge, V.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Absorptiometry, Photon - methods
Absorptiometry, Photon - veterinary
Adipose tissue
Animals
Body Composition
body fat
body weight
Body Weight - physiology
Canine
Dog Diseases - physiopathology
Dog Diseases - therapy
Dogs
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry
endpoints
Female
Male
Obesity
Obesity - physiopathology
Obesity - therapy
Obesity - veterinary
Overweight
Patient Selection
target weight
Veterinary medicine
Weight Loss
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Summary:Prior to starting a weight loss programme, target weight (TW) is often estimated, using starting body condition score (BCS). The current study assessed how well such estimates perform in clinical practice. Information on body weight, BCS and body composition was assessed before and after weight loss in 28 obese, client-owned dogs. Median decrease in starting weight per BCS unit was 10% (5–15%), with no significant difference between dogs losing moderate (1–2 BCS points) or marked (3–4 BCS points) amounts of weight (P=0.627). Mean decrease in body fat per BCS unit change was 5% (3–9%). A model based on a change of 10% of starting weight per unit of BCS above ideal (5/9) most closely estimated actual TW, but marked variability was seen. Therefore, although such calculations may provide a guide to final TW in obese dogs, they can either over- or under-estimate the appropriate end point of weight loss.
ISSN:0034-5288
1532-2661
DOI:10.1016/j.rvsc.2009.02.007