Is My Dog Overweight? A Kind, Practical Guide to a Healthy Weight

In a 2022 survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 59 percent of dogs were classified as overweight or having obesity. Many of their owners did not see it. Extra weight is hard on joints, the heart and energy, and it is fixable.

1. Use your hands, not the scale

You should be able to feel the ribs under a thin layer, see a waist from above and a tuck behind the ribs from the side.

2. Ask your vet for a target

They will give you a goal weight and a daily calorie amount.

3. Measure every meal

Do this: use a real measuring cup or a kitchen scale. Watch out for: the "scoop" that grows over time.

4. Count the treats

Treats should be a small share of the day's calories.

Do this: break treats in half, or use pieces of their regular food, green beans or carrot.

5. Add movement gradually

Ten more minutes a day beats one long weekend hike.

6. Get everyone in the house on the same plan

One person sneaking table scraps can undo the whole thing.

7. Weigh in monthly

Slow and steady is the goal. Your vet can adjust the plan.

Where to check all of this, free

• Your veterinarian.

• The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention at petobesityprevention.org.

This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Your veterinarian knows your dog best.