My dog seems skinny, but is her lean body condition actually healthy?

Question

What would her body condition score be to you guys and why? I have many people telling me shes severely emaciated and underfed, however, my vet tells me she has adequate muscling over her lateral muscles, thighs, and shoulders. She does have a somewhat roached back as well. Is she considered conditioned? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 3 years old | 55 lbs

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

I agree with your vet. Only someone who doesn't know the meaning of emaciated would call this dog emaciated. Yes, she is very lean, but she is well muscled (including the back area you mentioned), which indicates that she is getting adequate nutrition and is not suffering from an illness. Body condition scoring is not an exact science, because if you look at the guide you may call her a 3/9. This is because you can see her ribs. However, knowing how lean this dog is, I would put her more around a 4/9. No matter the score, she is in perfect condition - really, she's a great looking dog. I'll also note that studies have shown that dogs with these lower body condition scores tend to be healthier and live longer. The truth is that most people are used to seeing fat dogs (obesity is just as big of a problem with pet dogs in the U.S. as it is people) and will usually balk at the site of a 4/9, or even a 5/9 dog. I know you are and will continue to get comments from people who think that she is too skinny, but hopefully you are now armed with enough veterinary advice and knowledge that can help let the concerned person know that all is OK. I hope that helps and all is well with Dejah.

My dog seems skinny, but is her lean body condition actually healthy?

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