Q: How Can I Tell if My Large Breed is Overweight?

My 3-year-old Saint Bernard waddles and I was wondering if he could be over weight. I know that he is a large breed dog, but are there signs that I can look for?

Q: My 3-year-old Saint Bernard waddles and I was wondering if he could be overweight. I know that he is a large breed dog, but are there signs that I can look for?

A: A dog at a healthy weight should have ribs that can be easily felt but not seen. If you are having a lot of trouble feeling your dog's ribs he may be over weight. It is also possible that the waddling you are describing could be due to discomfort in the hips. Have your veterinarian evaluate your dog's hips and weight. It is very important to keep large breed dogs at a lean body weight so they have health related and orthopedic issues later in life.

Dr. Lauren Brickman Dr. Brickman started as a veterinary technician at Garden City Park in 1997 and went on to…

Filed Under: Health & Home, Nutrition
Tags: appropriate weight, breed, obesity, overweight, unhealthy, waddling

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