How do I know if my dog is overweight?

Use the body condition score: you should be able to feel your dog's ribs easily without pressing hard, see a visible waist from above, and see a tucked-up belly from the side. If the ribs are hard to feel and there's no waist, your dog is likely overweight.

How much should my dog weigh?

Ideal weight depends on breed and frame, not a single number. As a guide, each point above the ideal body condition score of 5 (on a 9-point scale) represents roughly 10% over ideal body weight.

How can I help my dog lose weight safely?

Reduce calories gradually, cut treats to under 10% of daily intake, increase exercise, and aim for slow loss of about 1–2% of body weight per week under veterinary guidance.

Is My Dog Overweight?

Estimate your dog's ideal weight and how much it may need to lose, using the vet body condition score.

Dog's current weight

Body condition — feel the ribs and look from above

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How to check your dog's body condition

Vets use a 9-point Body Condition Score (BCS), where 5 is ideal. You can assess it at home with three quick checks:

Ribs: run your hands along the sides — you should feel the ribs easily with only a thin layer of fat, like the back of your hand.
Waist (from above): there should be a visible inward curve behind the ribs.
Tummy tuck (from the side): the belly should rise up toward the hind legs, not hang level or sag.

Each point above the ideal score of 5 represents roughly 10% over ideal body weight, which is the basis for the estimate above.

Why weight matters

Over half of dogs in many countries are overweight. Excess weight shortens lifespan and raises the risk of arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Even modest weight loss can dramatically improve comfort and mobility.

Helping your dog reach a healthy weight

Use measured meals — see our dog food calculator and choose the "weight loss" setting.
Keep treats under 10% of daily calories; swap biscuits for veggies like carrots or green beans.
Increase activity gradually with more walks and play.
Aim for slow, steady loss of about 1–2% of body weight per week.

⚠️ This is an estimate based on body condition scoring. Ideal weight varies by breed and frame. Work with your veterinarian to set a target and a safe weight-loss plan, especially for very overweight dogs.

Frequently asked questions

What is a healthy weight for my breed?

Breed charts give a range, but the body condition score is more reliable because it accounts for your dog's individual frame. Two dogs of the same breed can have different ideal weights.

How fast should a dog lose weight?

Slowly — about 1–2% of body weight per week. Rapid weight loss can be unhealthy, so check with your vet.

My dog seems hungry all the time on a diet — what can I do?

Add low-calorie filler like green beans or plain pumpkin, split food into more meals, and use a slow-feeder bowl. Ask your vet about higher-fiber weight-management diets.