✓ Veterinarian Reviewed
Reviewed by Dr Gloria Ebeyer (BAVBS, DVM, Grad Cert SAECC, MANZCVS [Veterinary Practice])
Last reviewed: June 2026
Dog weight management is an often overlooked part of keeping your pet healthy.
It’s easy enough to show them love through food – but dogs aren’t exactly known for saying “no thank you, I’m full”!
That's why it's important to know the signs of obesity to look out for, as well as how to help a dog lose weight.
Why does a healthy dog weight matter?
Carrying extra weight puts real pressure on your dog's body.
Overweight dogs are at higher risk of joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and a shorter life expectancy. It can also affect their energy levels, mood, and overall quality of life.
On the flip side, dogs that are underweight may be missing out on essential nutrients, or there could be an underlying health issue worth investigating. Healthy dog weight isn't just about how your dog looks; it’s a genuine indicator of your pet's overall wellness.
How much should my dog weigh?
This is one of the most common questions pet owners ask, and the honest answer is: it depends on the breed. Healthy weight for dogs varies.
An ideal dog weight for a healthy Chihuahua looks very different from a healthy weight for a Labrador. As a general guide, most vets and pet health professionals use a Body Condition Score (BCS) - a scale that assesses your dog's weight based on how their ribs, waist, and hips feel and look, rather than a single number on the scale.
That said, knowing your dog's approximate ideal weight for their breed is a useful starting point. Ideal dog weight charts by breed are a handy reference, but they should always be used alongside a professional assessment rather than in place of one.
General breed weight ranges include:
- Small breeds (e.g. Cavalier King Charles, Pug): 6–10 kg
- Medium breeds (e.g. Border Collie, Beagle): 12–25 kg
- Large breeds (e.g. Labrador, German Shepherd): 25–40 kg
- Giant breeds (e.g. Great Dane, Bernese Mountain Dog): 45 kg+
Just remember that these are broad ranges. Your vet or a Petstock nurse can give you a much clearer picture of what's right for your individual dog with our free weight checks for Petstock Rewards members.
Your dog’s ideal weight can change over time, especially as they age, desex, or become more or less active. Regular weigh-ins are a simple way to spot gradual changes early, before they become harder to manage.
Is my dog overweight? Signs to look for
- Ribs: You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without pressing hard, but not see them. If you can’t feel them at all, that’s a sign there’s too much fat covering them.
- Waist: Looking from above, your dog should have a visible waist via a slight tuck inward behind the ribcage.
- Side profile/belly tuck: From the side, their belly should slope upward toward their hindquarters rather than hanging level or drooping.
- Behaviour changes: Behavioural signs can also be telling. If your dog tires easily on walks, is reluctant to exercise, or seems stiff when getting up, it could be due to excessive weight. Excessive panting after a short walk may also be a sign of being overweight.
How to help a dog lose weight
If your dog is carrying a few extra kilos, don't panic. It's a common situation and one that responds well to consistent effort. Here's where to start:
Talk to a professional first
Before changing your dog's diet or exercise routine, it's worth getting a proper assessment. This rules out any underlying health conditions and gives you a clear target to work toward.
Reassess their food
Many dogs are simply eating more than they need. Check the feeding guide on your dog's food packaging and measure portions rather than eyeballing them. It's also worth reviewing the calorie content of any treats, since these can add up faster than you'd expect.
Choose the right food
There are some excellent weight management dog food options available that are lower in calories but still nutritionally complete. The Petstock team can help point you in the right direction based on your dog's breed, age, and activity level.
Some brands such as Royal Canin and Hill's Science Diet have specific food blends based on your dog’s specific needs, such as weight loss or metabolic gut-friendly kibble.
Move more, with caution
Exercise is important, but sudden intense activity isn't the answer, especially for older dogs or those with joint issues. Gradually increasing daily walks is a safe and sustainable approach. Even an extra 10–15 minutes a day can make a difference over time. Research your breed’s recommended daily activity needs, as this will vary greatly from breed to breed.
Cut back on extras
Treats, table scraps, and sneaky snacks from the kids are often the hidden culprits behind weight gain. If you're using treats for training, opt for smaller, lower-calorie options and factor them into your dog's daily intake.
A healthier dog starts with small steps
Managing your dog's weight doesn't have to be as hard as it seems. Small, consistent changes to their diet and daily routine, together with the right products and a little professional guidance can make a big difference to how they look, feel, and move.
Need help getting your dog’s weight under control? Visit your nearest Petstock store, book a free nurse weight check, or browse our range of weight management dog food and healthy treats online today.