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My pet seems heavy. How do I know if they are overweight or obese?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 15 years and 8 months old | 60 lbs

How do I determine if my pet is obese?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 2nd, 2017

Your veterinarian can assist you in determining obesity. A physical exam can be done along with a Body Condition Score (BCS). There are 2 systems, a 5 point system and a 9 point system. This information along with Maggie's weight can determine if she is obese or not. She should have a thin layer of fat over her ribs which should be easily felt. Looking at her from above and from the side, her waist should be easily discernible. She should not be rectangular. She should also have a nice abdominal tuck sloping from her chest to abdomen. The following link can describe the BCS in more detail. http://www.cliniciansbrief.com/sites/default/files/sites/cliniciansbrief.com/files/BodyConditionScoresforDogs.pdf

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Here is a link to a body condition score chart where you can compare your dog to the standards to see if she is overweight. http://petobesityprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/DogBCS_APOP.pdf

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