Vets do not judge a dog's weight by the scale alone, because a healthy weight differs enormously between breeds. Instead they use a body condition score — a hands-on assessment you can easily do at home in under a minute, and the single best way to know whether you are feeding the right amount.
The three checks
- Ribs: run your hands along the chest. You should feel the ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, without pressing — like the back of your hand. If you cannot feel them, your dog is overweight; if they stick out sharply, underweight.
- Waist: looking down from above, your dog should have a visible waist that tucks in behind the ribs.
- Tuck: from the side, the belly should rise up towards the hind legs rather than hang level or sag.
What the result means
If the ribs are buried and there is no waist, it is time to cut portions and treats and increase exercise. If ribs, spine and hips are prominent, your dog needs more food — or a vet check to rule out a health problem. Treats should never exceed about 10 percent of daily calories.
Recheck regularly
Do this check monthly and adjust food in small steps of around 10 percent. Steady body condition over time, not a single weigh-in, is the real sign you have the portions right. When in doubt, your vet can confirm the score and set a target.
