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Is my dog fat?

Humans aren't the only animals battling their waist lines. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention has estimated that 58% of cats and 54% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. So, how can you as the pet owner determine if your dog is at an ideal, healthy body weight?

You should notice their ribs are slightly prominent and easily felt with a thin fat covering. When the dog moves around the room you should visibly note the last few ribs (not as noticeable with thick hair coats). When looking down on them from above you should notice an hourglass shape with a slight indentation starting just behind the ribs and widening again towards the hips. When viewing from the side they should have an abdominal tuck.

If you feel that your pet is overweight or obese speak with you regular veterinarian about setting up a weight loss plan. Keeping your pet at an ideal body weight can lengthen their life by as much as 2 years. Helpful sites to learn more about pet obesity can be found below.


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