Using body weight as a guide, dogs are considered to be overweight when they weigh 10-20% above their ideal body weight. They are considered obese when they weigh 20% or more above their ideal body weight.
At what weight is a dog considered obese?
If your dog weighs 20% or more than he should, he is considered medically obese. Thus, a dog that should weigh 50 pounds but weighs 60 pounds or more and a dog that should weigh 10 pounds but weighs 12 pounds or more are both considered medically obese.
When should I be worried about my dogs weight?
The best way to tell if your dog is overweight or obese is with a weigh-in at your veterinarian. Your vet can then tell you whether your dog is overweight according to your dog's size and breed. Remember that a healthy weight will look different for every breed. For example, most sighthounds should have visible ribs.
How can you tell if your dog is too heavy?
No matter your dog's breed, you should be able to feel all of your dog's ribs without a thick layer of fat over them. Your dog's chest should also be wider than his abdomen, with a noticeable tuck-up from chest to stomach. An overweight dog will generally have no waist and no distinction between chest and stomach.
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