A slow change in weight is easy to miss and useful to know. Here is how to track it, and what a chart can’t tell you.
This guide is general information. It does not replace advice from your veterinarian.
How to track it
Weigh your dog on the same scale, at about the same time of day, every few weeks. For small dogs you can weigh yourself with and without the dog; for larger ones, many clinics let you step in for a free weigh-in.
Reading the chart
Look at the direction over months, not single points. A gap between entries means nothing was logged, not that nothing changed.
What a number can’t tell you
A weight does not show body condition, muscle or illness. A dog can lose weight and look fine, or gain weight from fluid. Your vet can look at the whole picture.
Questions for your vet
- What is a healthy weight range for my dog?
- How fast is too fast to gain or lose?
- Should we change food or exercise?
