Fluffy puppy, trying to judge weight

I don’t know what’s going on with my little furball, Buddy. He’s my fluffy bundle of joy, but lately, I’m a bit worried. I noticed he’s looking a bit chubbier, though he’s still as playful as ever. It’s been just a couple of weeks since I noticed, but I can’t help but wonder if I’m overfeeding him or if it's something else. We usually take walks in the park every afternoon, and I haven’t changed his diet. I guess I’m just not sure how much a pup his age should weigh — he’s about 6 months old now. Are there any ways to figure out if he’s at a healthy weight without stressing him out? Just want to make sure he’s healthy and happy.

Embark Dog DNA Test

Recommended Product

Your dog's DNA could reveal hidden health risks.

Screen for 270+ genetic health risks and 350+ breeds. Veterinarian developed, research partner of Cornell University.

$199 USD
$139 USD
Save $60· Free US Shipping

Answer

Thanks for reaching out! Judging the weight of your fluffy puppy can be tricky, especially with all that fur hiding their true size. It's important to ensure that your pup is growing at a healthy rate for their breed and age, so you're doing the right thing by paying attention.



First, consider your puppy’s breed. Smaller breeds have different growth patterns compared to larger ones. As a general rule, puppies gain weight rapidly in their first year. If you're unsure what the ideal weight range is for your specific breed, it might be useful to check growth charts available online.



At home, you can get a rough idea by carefully weighing yourself, then stepping onto the scales while holding your puppy and subtracting your own weight. It's not perfect, but it offers a decent estimate.



Keep an eye on your puppy’s body condition, rather than just the numbers on the scale. You should be able to feel, but not see, their ribs with a slight layer of fat over them, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above.



Watch for signs like dramatic weight loss, gain, or changes in your puppy's eating habits, as these could indicate a health issue. If you're concerned or unsure, it might be worth scheduling a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet for tailored advice.

Clinically Approved Standard by Dial A Vet Veterinary Team

Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

Recommended for Dog Owners

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

18,899 Reviews

The most comprehensive dog DNA test. Screen for 270+ genetic health risks and identify breeds from 350+ breeds, types & varieties.

$199$139Save $60

Free US Shipping · Veterinarian Developed

Next available appointment

Loading…