Check your dog's ideal weight with the Body Mass Index
Our calculator uses the veterinary formula (weight in lbs / shoulder height in inches) with reference values from 305 dog breeds. Unlike the human BMI formula, this produces realistic values in the 0.5-10 range and includes gender-specific ideal values per breed.
At ideal weight, ribs are easily felt (but not visible), the waist is visible from above, and the belly tucks up slightly. If ribs can only be felt with pressure and no waist is visible, your dog is overweight.
Excess weight shortens life expectancy by up to 2 years. It strains joints and bones, increases the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Even 10% above ideal weight is considered significant.