The 'fat pet gap' refers to the discrepancy between pet owners' perceptions of their dogs' weight and the actual healthy weight standards. Many owners may not recognize when their dog is overweight or obese, especially with fluffy breeds where weight gain is less visible. This gap in awareness can lead to unintentional overfeeding and insufficient exercise, contributing to obesity. Without understanding what a healthy weight looks like, owners may overlook the need for dietary and lifestyle adjustments, exacerbating health risks like osteoarthritis, cardiovascular issues, and shortened life expectancy.