How Can I Tell How Much My Dog Is Supposed to Weigh?

A growing percentage of dogs are succumbing to the same problem as many humans: They are overweight. Canine obesity is an increasing challenge for owners and vets alike. But dealing with an underweight canine can be equally difficult. There are several ways to keep tabs on your pooch's paunch to be sure he's the right weight.

  1. The Rib Test

    • Measure your dog's weight with a simple test. With your dog standing and your hands flat, run your hands down his sides. See if you can easily feel his ribs. Don't press; keep the pressure light. Next, run your hands down his sides again to his ribs. Check for a dip in his body between his waist and ribs. Finally, run one hand under his stomach to his groin. You should be able to feel a tuck under his stomach between his ribs and groin.

    What Does It Mean?

    • If you can't feel your dog's ribs when you run your hands down his sides or a dip at his groin, chances are he's overweight. You should be able to just feel the rib cage. If the ribs feel prominent without pressing on the rib cage, your dog is underweight. An underweight dog will have a pronounced tuck at his groin and, depending on his breed, his hip bones may protrude as well. Your dog is the correct weight if you can feel his ribs and tuck without pressing when you test with your hands.

    Check the Scale

    • Ask your vet or breeder to tell you what the optimal weight for your dog should be. You can weigh your dog at home if you have a small- to medium-size dog by weighing yourself first. Then pick up your dog and step on the scale again. Subtract your weight from the total to get your dog's weight. Weigh your dog weekly and make a note of the number. Your vet can tell you whether he should gain or lose weight at your dog's annual examination.

    Diet and Exercise

    • Walking is good for both you and your dog.

      If your dog is overweight, check the amount you are feeding him. Don't feed according to the recommendation on the bag; it's a general recommendation and not tailored to your dog. If your dog is underweight, he should eat more. If he's overweight, feed him less. Once your dog reaches his optimum weight, you will know you're feeding the correct amount, although you will need to adjust his food depending on the amount of exercise he is getting. A performance dog needs more nutrition than a couch potato. Factor treats into your dog's daily ration; they have calories too. Substitute carrots or fresh vegetables for treats if you have a porky pup. To get a general idea of how many calories your dog should consume each day, use the Basic Calorie Calculator from the Ohio State University's Veterinary Medical Center (see the Resources section.) Keep your dog fit with a daily walk; the exercise will benefit both of you and it's a great opportunity to bond with your pooch.