Calculate The Dogs Weight Correctly

Overweight in our pets seriously affects their health and longevity, and is the biggest veterinary problem in countries around the world. For the health and well-being of your furry friend, it is crucial to ensure that they maintain an adequate weight.

Obesity carries significant risks for the well-being of our dogs, as it shortens their lifespan and reduces their quality of life by more frequently developing some important conditions, such as arthritis, respiratory problems, heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. That is why we are going to learn how to calculate the weight of a dog correctly.

How to measure your dog’s body condition?

This factor is a key indicator of your pet’s overall health. To assess it, you can use two main methods: the Canine Body Mass Index (BMI) or a visual assessment.

Using the Canine Body Mass Index (BMI)

The canine BMI is a tool that allows you to calculate your dog’s ideal weight based on its height and body structure. The formula is as follows:

BMI = Weight (kg) / (Height in meters) 2

Measuring BMI is a great way to get an objective estimate of your dog’s ideal weight. This method takes into account the relationship between height and weight, providing a more accurate indicator.

Methodology 1 – Steps to calculate your dog’s BMI

Calculating your dog’s BMI is a simple but essential process to determine if he is at an appropriate weight. To do this, follow these steps:

Weigh your pet on a suitable scale. Sit with him in your arms and then subtract your own weight to get your pet’s.
Measure his height from the withers to the ground (the withers are the highest point on the back, just before the neck).

• Use the BMI formula: BMI = Weight (kg) / (Height in meters)2.

Compare the result with the reference values ​​for your dog’s breed or use the general canine BMI guidelines.
Remember that this is only an initial estimate. Consult your veterinarian for a more accurate evaluation and specific recommendations. Here is a general estimate (remember that it varies by breed):

Small Breeds (e.g. Chihuahua, Dachshund):

• Average BMI: 18 – 24
• Underweight: Less than 18
• Overweight: More than 24

Medium Breeds (e.g. Labrador Retriever, English Bulldog):

• Average BMI: 19 – 25
• Underweight: Less than 19
• Overweight: More than 25

Large Breeds (e.g. Golden Retriever, German Shepherd):

• Average BMI: 18 – 24
• Underweight: Less than 18
• Overweight: More than 24

Giant Breeds (e.g. Saint Bernard, English Mastiff):

• Average BMI: 17 – 23
• Underweight: Less than 17
• Overweight: More than 23

Methodology 2 – Steps to calculate your dog’s BMI

The A dog’s ideal weight, like that of a human, is calculated using the BMI (Body Mass Index), which is affected by breed, sex, and age. There are many applications for this on the Internet, but you can also make a calculator by hand with the following formula:

IMC = PC/ (HSh x OT )

In addition, there are other zoomorphic formulas that are used to calculate body fat, and they are:

Body fat in males = -1.4 HS + 0.7 CP + 4
Body fat in females = -1.7 HS + 0.93 CP +5

The data used in the above formulas are obtained from different measurements with the dog standing, which indicate:

OT = distance from the occiput to the base of the tail
CP = pelvic circumference (cm)
HSh= shoulder height
HS = right hind limb measured from the knee to the tarsal joint (cm)
PC = body weight (kg)

Methodology 3 – Tractive Website to calculate your dog’s BMI

You can visit the following website and fill in the data to find out your dog’s weight English:https://tractive.com/bmi/es/dog

Tips for overweight dogs

We must not forget that certain breeds are more prone to gaining weight, and that other factors such as sterilization or castration affect them by reducing their activity. Whether your dog has the ideal weight depends exclusively on you. 70% is due to the type of food you choose, and 30% to daily physical activity.

There are some tips that all members of the family can follow to avoid or control overweight:

• Do not share our food with him, or save leftovers for him. It is much better for him to eat only his ration, without extras.
• If you have several, separate them for food, you will avoid him eating from the ration of the others.
• Increase physical activity, both the frequency and intensity of walks, always gradually, and adapting it to his characteristics (breed, age, physical condition, …). And avoid excessive activity.
• Monitor weight weekly. If it is a small breed, and you do not have an accurate scale, try to weigh yourself, and weigh yourself with the dog in your arms. The difference will give you its exact weight.
• If you have children, avoid giving them their snack or treats.
• If you are going to change the diet, consult your veterinarian so that he can give you the necessary advice.

 

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