Quiz: Should Your Dog Lose Weight?

We know that your fur baby is the best, ever. We are under no pretense that the special canine in your life is anything but superior, and we applaud you for accompanying such GR8NESS.

We understand that you’re here because you’re questioning something that would shake any companion to the best dog ever. Defenseless against even the likes of tummy rubs and cuddles, a question begs:

Is my fluffer muffin, too fluffy?

We apologize for the graphic content, and we encourage that you cease worrying as there is, in fact, no such thing as too fluffy. There is, however, such a thing as your dog being overweight.

Here’s the chow.

Go for the Gut

Just kidding with that title—we had to mix it up and poke a little fun, but know this isn’t easy. There is something behind it, though. Flip your pup over and take a look at their belly.

If it appears to be round instead of lean as it stretches, they might have a little extra. Keep a lookout as well for the abdominal tuck, can you see a visible decline from the curve of the chest to the belly? Another sign, they’re overweight.

Check the Cage

Observe their ribs, can you see the separation between them, or is it difficult to make them out? Visibility and prominence of the ribs without having to press, are indicators of a healthy, fit dog. If they are overweight, fat may diminish the rib’s visibility.

Watch Over Them

Literally. Stand over them and take note of their shape. A healthy dog will have a chest wider than the abdomen and will taper at the waist.

Where to Go from Here

It’s not easy catering to the best dog ever, and as we said earlier, we applaud you. Wanting nothing but the best for them can blur some lines, and it can be hard always to know what the best is in the face of puppy eyes.

Remember that taking in excessive calories by means of extra love snacks, or free feeding (leaving the bowl full all day), can contribute to excessive weight gain. Inappropriate feeding practices with varying times, lack of activity, and genetics can all play a role in your pup’s weight as well.

Consult with a veterinarian if you’re concerned about any of the aforementioned. If you’d like to take things a step further, try using the Healthy Weight Protocol tool in tandem with your vet to determine your pet’s BMI and other useful tools for combating weight gain extra love.