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Is my 5-month-old poodle's weight healthy? How much exercise is safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Poodle | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 6 days old | 7 lbs

Hi! I have a 5 month old miniature poodle, and I’m a first time dog owner. He’s about 7 or 8 pounds, is that a good weight? His ribs are pretty prominent, but not to the point where I can see them. He zooms around he jumps over things, and he jumps, like a lot a lot, is that safe? How much exercise should he be getting? I’m worrying a lot and I feel like I’m doing a lot wrong, but if you have any advice for me and him, I would appreciate it so much. Thank you!

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2019

Hello and thank you for reaching out to PetCoach. Congratulations on the puppy! It can be overwhelming to start caring for a new pup. Rather than depend on weight, we will determine if a dog is at a healthy body condition score (BCS) by using a chart that gives a dog a BCS anywhere from 1 to 9, with 4-5 being ideal. This website helps explain this system: https://www.thedrakecenter.com/services/pets/blog/fit-or-fat-your-pets-body-condition-score-bcs I recommend feeding Leo whatever the recommended amount is on the puppy food bag. Leo should be eating a kibble dog food that is formulated for puppies or "growth". As much exercise as he wants to get is perfect! Puppies are very high energy, so this is nothing to worry about. He will eventually settle down, so enjoy the energy for now! I hope this is helpful!

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