How to tell if my large puppy is a healthy weight and how to weigh him?

Question

So my puppy had trouble gaining weight due to a Food allergy and so he’s been on a bland diet of fresh boiled chicken and rice and one small scoop of cottage cheese and feeding twice a day. He was 61 pounds when the Vet last saw him and wanted to definitely gain weight so I just wanted to ask for a standard poodle/Newfoundland mix how’s his body shape. Also how do I weigh him? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 7 months and 3 days old | 115 lbs

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

It looks like his weight and body condition are good, though its difficult to evaluate that without being able to put my hands on him. (the hair can be deceiving) . When you run your hands over his chest you should be able to feel his ribs easily but they should not be prominent. When you run your hands along the sides of the abdomen back to the hips, you should be able to appreciate a "waist," but the bones of his hips should not be prominent. His spine (backbones) over his lower back should not be easy to feel. Without a walk-on scale like your vet has in his office, the best way to weigh him is by picking him up and weighing yourself on a bathroom scale. Then subtract your weight. (please be careful!! I don't want you to injure your back picking him up!) I hope that information is helpful for you. If you are continuing to feed a home cooked diet, consider checking out the site www.balanceit.com. This website will help you ensure that you have a balanced home cooked diet for Bear. Thanks for asking PetCoach!

How to tell if my large puppy is a healthy weight and how to weigh him?

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