What is the recommended safe range for weekly weight loss as a percentage of current body weight?
Answer
1% to 3%
Safe and sustainable weight loss in dogs is a methodical process, and the rate of reduction must be carefully controlled to prevent adverse health consequences. The target range for healthy, steady weight loss is established at approximately 1% to 3% of the dog's current body weight lost each week. Losing weight too rapidly—exceeding the 3% threshold—signals that the caloric deficit is overly steep. This extreme deficit significantly increases the risk of losing valuable lean muscle mass instead of just fat, and it can also lead to potentially dangerous nutrient deficiencies if the intake is too restricted.
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