May need assessment
- Ribs, spine or hip bones may be prominent
- Very narrow waist when viewed from above
- Pronounced tummy tuck from the side
BODY CONDITION GUIDE● A SIMPLE VISUAL CHECK
Is your dog at a
healthy body condition?
Weight alone does not tell the whole story. Look at your dog from above and from the side, then gently feel over the ribs.
A healthy starting point
- Ribs are easy to feel without excess fat
- Waist is visible behind the ribs from above
- Tummy tuck is visible from the side
Consider a target weight
- Ribs may be difficult to feel
- Waist is reduced or absent from above
- Little or no tummy tuck from the side
WHAT TO DO NEXT
Use this as a starting check
Body shapes vary between breeds, and coat length can hide the waist and ribs. If your dog appears under or over ideal—or you are unsure about a healthy target weight—ask your vet to assess body condition and muscle condition.This simplified guide is educational and is not a diagnosis or a replacement for veterinary advice.