Obesity is a common health problems in Australian dogs. If not addressed early on obesity can lead to other serious health complications such as heart failure and diabetes. Obesity can also exacerbate other conditions such as osteoarthritis. You should consult with your veterinarian who can weigh your pet and determine your pet’s Body Condition Score (BCS).
When viewed from above, your dog should have an observable waist, between the end of the rib cage and the start of the back legs. When you gently palpate along their rib area – you should be able to feel the ribs with some fat covering the ribs (but without excess fat covering). When viewed side on, the abdomen should be tucked up. See the BCS link above for pictures to help.
If your pet is overweight your vet can talk to you about how you might modify his diet and exercise routine to get him back into a healthy weight range and healthy Body Condition Score.
Please see the article below titled “What should I feed my dog?” for more information about canine nutrition.
