How heavy should my dog be? Are they overweight or underweight?

Learn how to spot whether your dog is overweight.

Header photo of a dog on a weighing scale. Routine weight checks are useful for managing pet obesity and ensure health.

Overview

It can be very tempting to overindulge when it comes to feeding treats to your dog, especially when they’re giving you the famous puppy-dog eyes!

Even so, keeping an eye on their weight is important if you want to avoid the health issues associated with being overweight or underweight.

Weight gain in dogs can happen when their walks become shorter, which is common in the colder months. If it goes on for a while, a reduction in exercise without a reduction in calorie intake can make your dog overweight or obese.

Ideal dog weight: how much should my dog weigh?

Is my dog underweight?

Is my dog overweight or obese?

What is the best way to help my dog achieve a healthy weight?

Dog breed weight chart

Medically reviewed by Edward Davies, Dave Tweedle

Published on 03/01/2019 • Reviewed on 03/01/2025