The quintessential British tradition of enjoying an outdoor meal with dips, meats, and supermarket 'picky bits' is inadvertently causing millions of dogs to suffer from unnecessary weight gain and digestive problems, according to new research. As millions of Britons flock to parks and gardens for alfresco dining during the sunny months, their canine companions are falling ill from consuming picnic food scraps.
These so-called 'treats' are actually causing distress to dogs, according to a study by YuMOVE, the UK's leading vet-recommended supplement brand, released during National Picnic Week (15–21 June). The research found that more than half (58%) of UK dog owners give their pets extra treats during summer social gatherings, with BBQ and picnic scraps accounting for over half of an 8kg dog's daily calorie intake. Furthermore, seven in ten (73%) of UK dogs experience digestive problems resulting from additional summer snacks.
To help dog owners understand the dangers of overindulgence, YuMOVE hosted a 'Puppy Picnic' for National Picnic Week. This event highlighted the hidden cumulative calorie impact of common picnic treats, with treats 'sized up' to represent their true calorific equivalent for an average 8kg dog. For instance, one sausage shared with an active 8kg dog, such as a Jack Russell, has the same calorie impact as an 80kg man eating five and a half sausages as a snack. Unlike humans, who might skip a meal later to compensate, most dogs will still happily eat their full dinner, meaning every shared treat adds to an already complete daily diet.
Calorie Content of Common Picnic Treats for an 8kg Dog
- Pork sausage (60g) – approximately 168 kcal, 36% of daily intake
- Ham, 2 slices (50g) – approximately 82 kcal, 17% of daily intake
- Cheddar cheese chunk (60g) – approximately 240 kcal, 51% of daily intake
- Sausage roll (103g) – approximately 330 kcal, 70% of daily intake
- Mini pork pie (20g) – approximately 279 kcal, 59% of daily intake
Veterinarians warn that overweight dogs face more health issues, including poor mobility and reduced quality of life. This is why YuMOVE has launched the PETSPAN initiative, a science-backed guide that helps dogs live better for longer through 25 easy-to-follow steps, enabling owners to make better choices.
Courtney Miller, Chief Veterinary and Innovation Officer at YuMOVE, stated: 'Beyond the calorie impact, feeding human food may lead to digestive upset, something we often see reflected in the rise of digestive issues during the summer months, especially after warm spells or bank holiday weekend BBQs. It is also worth reminding owners that certain everyday foods can be toxic to dogs and should not be shared, regardless of quantity – including chocolate, grapes, raisins, and onions.'
To support digestive health year-round, YuMOVE has launched its digestive Pre, Pro & Postbiotic bites for gut health and immunity. Miller added: 'A little awareness goes a long way towards keeping dogs happy, healthy, and by our sides for longer. Informed choices can be made without taking away the joy of shared moments. If you really cannot resist those puppy eyes, as a rough guide, assume a lightly active dog needs approximately 40 calories per kilogram of bodyweight per day. Some human foods like carrots and blueberries offer healthy, low-calorie snack alternatives that can be given in moderation alongside a balanced and complete diet.'
Owners can download the free PETSPAN Blueprint for more guidance.
