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How do you know if a dog is overweight or underweight? It can be a complex question for the average dog owner. Just like humans, dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from small and stocky to long and lean to angular bodies and legs. Guessing the right weight for each frame can be intimidating. Here are the signs that can help you judge the weight ratio of some of the most typical dog breeds: retriever, terrier, poodle, spaniel, shih tzu. The main areas to check are the ribs, hips, waist and stomach.
Signs your dog is overweight:
Chunky Monkey -A hipless dog- Your dog shouldn’t look like a dachshund unless he is one.
marshmallow -If you cannot feel your dog’s spine, hips or ribs under slight pressure and instead only feel soft fat.
duck – A waddling dog with layers on the sides and hips that roll as the dog walks.
Around – As the abdomen rounds past the navel area, the abdomen should pull up and into the waist.
Signs your dog is underweight:
The belt– The dog’s waist appears to be sucked in under vacuum pressure
Twiggy – The hip bones, ribs and spine can be seen or felt without pressure touch
parachute -There is excess skin at the bottom of the waist
Signs your dog is the perfect weight:
· The width of the waist is 1.2 to 1.3 times larger than the width of the neck
The dog’s sides will not wobble or roll when the dog moves or runs
· The hips, ribs or spine cannot be seen, but can be felt with slight pressure
· The dog’s belly draws into the waistline and does not curve or curve excessively.
Patience and a bit of experimentation are helpful in finding the perfect weight for your dog. Your veterinarian is a great resource when doing research on how much and what type of food to feed your dog. You are the one living with your dog day to day and you will see if the weight changes as you change food and/or training schedules. Whatever you choose, make these changes in moderation. As you increase the amount of exercise in your dog’s life, make sure their nails are clipped back to a useable length.
If you think your dog is a “chunky monkey,” check with your vet first to rule out a number of diseases that affect certain breeds more than others (such as Cushing’s disease) that make the dog look overweight when it isn’t. This guide works for most dogs. For “lean breed” dogs such as Great Danes, Whippets and Greyhounds, use the Underweight Dog Scale for the perfect weight. If your dog looks like he’s wearing a belt, try feeding him more food and increasing his intake by ¼, 1/2, or 1 cup more day and night, depending on whether he’s a small, medium or large dog. It is common for dogs that are intact to remain on the lean side. There are many dietary supplements available in the market to increase appetite. Veterinary guidance and experimentation are key to weight change in dogs.
Find out where your dog’s weight is. Consult a veterinarian if you have any questions. Make appropriate changes for your dog’s age. Experiment with your dog weekly by gradually changing their food intake and exercise regimen. Check out the dog weight range pictures and videos on the website for more help for your breed. Give your dog the longest, healthiest life you can, skim off the marshmallows and make Twiggy remember, keep your dog’s weight “just right”. The time you gain with it will far outweigh the inconvenience and trouble it may cost you.
Copyright 2010 DuAnn Lustig Chambers
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