A chubby pug who is almost double her recommended weight has been put on a diet after suffering a number of heatlh problems due to lack of exercise.

Sugar weighs 11.9kg, the same as an average two-year-old, after years of not being taken for a walk

The 12-year-old pug was rescued eight months ago by her owner, Steve Jones, who said the dog’s previous owner didn’t exercise her.

“Sugar’s owner was partially sighted and her limited vision meant she couldn’t cope with her. She never used to go out for walks at all,” he said.

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“She has poor vision herself and is also deaf, which presents quite a few challenges.

“In the last couple of weeks she’s also had to have all her teeth taken out so she’s not enjoyed the best of health.”

Sugar has lost a kilogram since being adopted but her size makes medical procedures, such as dental work, much riskier.

Mr Jones said his other dog Winston, a Bichon Frise, is a healthy weight and has up to four walks a day.

“I take Sugar out as well but we have to go at her pace and it takes a lot longer so she is walked once a day at the moment,” he added.

“Since she’s had her bad teeth removed she seems healthier and happier, so we’re going to try and increase her exercise.”

The pug has now been enrolled in a fit club competition run by the charity People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA).

“Obesity has been a huge problem among UK pets for a number of years and sadly there is no sign of improvement,” said PDSA vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan.

“It is one of the biggest long-term health concerns for our pet population, because it is so commonly seen by vets and nurses.

“Animals who are overweight have a much greater risk of developing health problems such as arthritis and diabetes.

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“Excess weight can also seriously aggravate other medical problems, for example making it even more difficult for flat-faced breeds like pugs and French Bulldogs to breathe.

“Research has also shown that carrying too much weight can even reduce a dog’s life expectancy by up to two years and six months.”