Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

How do I know if my German Spitz-Chihuahua mix is a healthy weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 2 years and 3 months old

What should be the recommended weight for a German Spitz-Chihuahua mix??

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 6th, 2017

This really depends on the size and build of the dog - with mixed-breed dogs like this, genetics can be very unpredictable! :) Instead of focusing so much on how many pounds he weighs, I would recommend looking at his body condition. Ideally, you should be able to feel his ribs fairly easily when you run your hands down his sides, and he should have a visible waistline or "abdominal tuck" just behind the rib cage. If you can't feel his ribs or he doesn't have a waistline, he probably needs to lose some weight. If his ribs and hip bones are visibly sticking out, he's probably a bit too thin and should gain a bit.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 12th, 2017

    Because Bubby is a mixed breed, it's hard to say what the standard average weight he should be and what would be considered overweight. You can use his body condition score to determine if he is overweight or not, and I can give you a link to a website detailing on how to determine is body condition score: https://www.wsava.org/sites/default/files/Body%20condition%20score%20chart%20dogs.pdf

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored