Idaho scores highest in fittest dog study

KELLOGG — Humans aren’t the only ones seeing the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic according to a recent study done by pet insurance company OneVet.

According to the OneVet’s study, more than 60% of Americans admitted they gained weight during the pandemic, making the topic a recent source of concern for health care providers. So what about our furry friends?

Aside from overfeeding themselves during the pandemic, the study reported that 36% of pet owners also reported that their dogs had also seen substantial weight gain since 2020.

To break down which state had the healthiest pups, OneVet conducted a survey across 42 states in September of 2021 asking owners in each state to list the breed and current weight of their dog(s). They then compared that number to the AKC-recommended weight chart according to each dog’s specific breed.

The survey results found the national average amount overweight for all pets sat at 11.83 pounds, with Idaho impressively seeing the least amount of weight gain of all of the states involved.

According to the study, “With a hefty average of over 18 pounds overweight, Pennsylvania is home to the plumpest pets in America. Virginia, Wisconsin, and Georgia were neck and neck for the runner-up spots, all with an average of over 16 pounds overweight. Idaho pups were the least plump pets, clocking in at 6.9 pounds overweight and 42% under the national average. Maybe it’s the vast Idaho fields that pups spend their days running through, but Idaho residents are keeping their pets in line.”

Dr. Patti Barrett of Silver Valley Veterinary Clinic weighed in on the issue saying luckily, the pups she sees don’t appear to be struggling to maintain a healthy weight and have continued to stay fit during the pandemic. She credited Idaho’s pet owners, who she says take advantage of our state's wide variety of recreational opportunities.

OneVet urged other dog owners to follow suit saying “Always check with your vet if your pooch is experiencing rapid or unexplained weight gain, and make sure you’re feeding your furry friend the right amount of food while avoiding too many treats. Exercise in the form of a nice dog walk is also a great addition to your pet’s routine. Sometimes it’s hard not to spoil our pets, but giving them the best quality of life is all the spoiling they need.”