Is My Dog Overweight? How to Help Your Pup Trim Down for Health and Happiness

Do you ever wonder if your furry friend is getting too chubby? photo: AdobeStock

Hey, dog lovers! Do you ever wonder if your furry friend is getting too chubby? 

Excess weight can cause many health problems for your pup, including diabetes, arthritis, breathing difficulties, and a reduced lifespan. It can also affect your dog’s mood and energy levels. In fact, maintaining a healthy weight is key to keeping your dog active and happy. 

It’s not always easy to tell if your dog is overweight, but here are some signs to look for. 

First, try to feel your dog’s ribs. You should be able to feel them with a light touch but not see them sticking out. If you can’t feel the ribs at all, or if you have to press hard to find them, your dog might be carrying a few too many extra pounds.

Second, look at your dog’s waist. When you view your dog from above, you should see a slight indentation behind the ribs. This is the waist. If your dog’s line is straight from chest to belly, or bulging beyond the ribs, they are likely overweight. You can also check the waist from the side. Your dog’s belly should tuck up slightly, not hang down.

Third, weigh your dog regularly. You can use a scale at home if your dog will fit on yours or drop by your vet’s office. Then compare your dog’s weight to the ideal weight range for their breed and size, using an online chart such as this one from the American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/breed-weight-chart/ 

If your dog is noticeably above the normal range, they may be overweight.

If your dog is too heavy, what can you do about it?

The good news is that you can help your dog lose those extra pounds by following these simple steps. 

• Feed your dog a balanced and nutritious diet. Avoid giving too many treats and cut out the table scraps. You can also ask your vet for advice on how much and how often to feed your dog.

• Exercise your dog regularly. Make sure your dog gets enough physical activity every day. Play with them, take them for walks, or join a dog sport or club. Exercise is good for both of you!

• Monitor your dog’s progress. Keep track of your dog’s weight and body condition. You can use a measuring tape or a body condition score chart to measure your dog’s size. You can also take pictures of your dog to see the changes over time.

• Be patient and consistent. Don’t expect your dog to lose weight overnight. It may take several weeks or months to see results. But don’t give up! Your dog will thank you for it.

Remember, a healthy weight is a happy weight! Show your dog you care by helping them maintain theirs.