Pug doesn't want to go outside

Why do people get so offended when people call their dog fat?  They take it so personally!

Frankly, I agree with mudpuppy that the pug in the above photo definitely looks very obese.  Very.  And yes, sadly, it's very common within the breed -- so much so that many people think it's "normal."  Just like when my brother's Basset Hound ballooned up to 65 pounds.  My brother and sister-in-law said that was just "normal" for the breed.  Yeah, just like her lameness due to being overweight was "normal."  The vet convinced them to put her on a strict diet -- her target weight was between 45-50 pounds.  She's down to 52 pounds now and looks SO MUCH BETTER.  Even my brother admits that she was fat now and that she has tons more energy now that she's lost weight.

My cousin has a young male Pug that is the HEALTHIEST little Pug I've ever seen.  He is THIN, muscular & energetic.  To me, he is what all Pugs should look like.  I know another person who has two Pugs -- one is fit & thin (the younger one) and the other is FAT and has breathing issues because of it.  Oddly enough, even people like that can make excuses as to why one is fat and the other isn't.....

We feed our dogs.  We are responsible for keeping them at a healthy weight.  It doesn't do anyone any good to make excuses as to why our dogs are fat or worse yet -- to say they aren't fat when they obviously are.

Call me old fashioned but for some strange reason I just think it is easier to reach people and perhaps do some good if you are polite.

 There is a huge difference in saying someone or something looks overweight and saying that same person or think is grossly overweight.

One statement opens the door for the conversation the other slams it shut.

Moderator note...

Generally...

I note a distinct lack of tact in some of the posts on this thread...as well as a distinct lack of helping out the OP and giving them input that is useful, or barring that, simply offering some support to a worried owner. Answer the OP...and offer input or support...or start a new thread to continue off topic discussion.

ETA: Also mind your tone, and realize (here or ANYWHERE on this forum) you are speaking to a person that has feelings and is deserving of respect and civility.

I posted the same question on a Pug specific forum and I think the answers there provide an adequate explanation.  I didn't mean to cause a tiff here, the next time I have a question about my BMW I'll make sure not to post on the general auto forums... :)