Quick Answer: The rib test: run your flat hand along your dog's ribcage — you should feel each rib easily with light pressure, but not see them. If you have to press firmly to feel ribs, your dog is likely overweight. The waist check: looking down from above, your dog should have a visible waist behind the ribcage. Looking from the side, the belly should tuck up from the chest toward the hind legs. No visible waist = overweight.
The At-Home Weight Check
- Rib test — feel, don't see. Ribs palpable with light pressure = healthy. Can't feel ribs without pressing = overweight.
- Waist check from above — visible tuck behind ribs = healthy. No visible narrowing = overweight.
- Side profile — abdominal tuck visible from the side = healthy. Belly level with or drooping below chest = overweight.
The Enrichment Feeding Approach to Weight Management
Snuffle mat meals and treat balls extend the same caloric intake into 15-20 minutes of active feeding — producing more satiety from the same amount of food. Combined with accurate portion measurement, these tools are the most practical approach to canine weight management without reducing quality of life.
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Built with love, in memory of JJ. 🐾💛
