I have a 9 mth old black female lab. She weighs between 65-70 lbs is she to fat? Her back is about 26 inches from the floor to give u an ideal on her heigth, and I would guess about 30 inches in long.
I have had friends with large breed dogs who have had hip problems due to weight issues and I dont this to happen to my girl
2007-10-23 07:33:03 · 14 answers · asked by mis_astro 4 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Hmmmm I call her "my baby" because she is the youngest of my 3 dogs, and because my 2 sons got her for me because I had lost a dog.
Because I call her "my baby" does not mean she gets cheese burgers from Mcdonalds. She is fed Kibble like my other 2 girls
2007-10-23 07:46:21 · update #1
run your hands along her sides.. can you feel her ribs? If not, then its time for a diet.
here's a guide from Purina to help you determine if your dog is overweight or not.. there are pictures along the side for guides.
http://www.placervillevet.com/canine%20body%20condition.htm
2007-10-23 08:00:32 · answer #1 · answered by Nekkid Truth! 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I couldn't tell you without actually seeing your dog in person. I do know that the average person thinks a dog at an ideal weight is thin though, so if "everyone" thinks your dog is overweight there may be something to that. 65-70lbs does sound a little heavy for a 9 month old female lab...but it may not be if your dog is larger than average. 65-70lbs does NOT sound heavy for a dog that is truly 26 inches at the shoulder. My adult female german shepherd is 24 inches at the shoulder and a perfect weight at 70lbs. My less than two year old male shepherd was too skinny at 28 inches tall and 70lbs. But my dogs' heights and weights and the appropriateness of their weights doesn't mean jack about whether your dog is overweight or not.
2007-10-23 15:19:53 · answer #2 · answered by ainawgsd 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Without seeing the dog, I really can't say, but she could be. I'd ask your vet to give you an honest assessment of her body condition.
At 9 months she is likely as tall (or very nearly) as she ever will be, but is still filling out. In other words, she should not LOOK overweight, but perhaps should look a bit on the thin side. Most dogs will continue to bulk up and add muscle until at least the age of 2. This means yours has a good bit of muscle-mass yet to add.
For optimal health, you should be slightly underfeeding her anyway, because extra weight on a bone structure that is still growing can lead to health problems in the future. You are absolutely right to worry about the hips, and obesity brings with it a host of other health issues as well.
She's not old enough yet for strenuous exercise, but you can safeguard her health by exercising her a little more and feeding her a little less.
2007-10-23 15:04:36 · answer #3 · answered by * 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Definately talk to a vet, or post a pic so people can see. The dog should have a "waist". I think (without seeing the dog) that 65-70 lbs for a 9 month old dog is too much. Especially a female lab...they're usually smaller than the males.
2007-10-23 14:38:28 · answer #4 · answered by born2ridetbs 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
The dog should have an hourglass figure, large around the ribs and should indent at the back legs, if your dog is straight then yes, she is overweight. Only your vet will be able to tell you if your dog is overweight.
Our chocolate lab had put on weight and all we did was change her food to reduced fat and decreased her intake, lots of daily trips to the park so she can exercise and in six months had dropped weight.
It's not healthy for a dog to be overweight, it puts too much strain on their internal organs and takes several years off of their life.
Consult with your vet to find out if your dog is at their ideal weight.
2007-10-23 14:43:49 · answer #5 · answered by Weimaraner Mom 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
65 to 70 lbs. on a 26" dog is not fat.
I have a 5 y/o black female that is 22" tall and weighs 66 lbs. She is a compact, well muscled dog, put together very nicely. She is within the conformation standards for females. 21.5 to 23.5 tall and 55 to 70 lbs.
I have a black male that is 25-26 tall. He looks good at 80 lbs. for his size. He was 70 lbs. at 6 months and 82 lbs. at a year old.
Just don't let her get fat.
2007-10-23 18:39:19 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is supposed to be a trick to tell if a dog is overweight, underweight, or at the right size. Look at them from a top and side few. The stomach should be tucked up, but not ribbed. The should have an obvious waist line. If you aren't sure, take her to the vet. They will know for sure if the dog is healthy or not.
2007-10-23 14:42:21 · answer #7 · answered by wrayrae99 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i just have to defend you calling your pup "your baby" :) my dog is almost four and she is still my baby!! And i am sure, like you, I do everything in my power to make sure she is healthy!
As for your question, If she doesn't have a waist line and seems lethargic she may need more exercise and less food per serving! I am sure your vet will let you know if she is overweight the next time you take her in.
2007-10-23 15:55:46 · answer #8 · answered by bethany b 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your dog should way 70 pounds when it's full grown.Second feed your dog three times a day to keep it on the average puppy weight.That's all you need to do.
2007-10-23 15:06:53 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
You're supposed to barely see their ribs poking out. If you can't, your vet will tell you that she's too fat. Personally, I don't agree with that. Labs tend to have hip issues, overweight or not. Your vet can tell you if her hips feel good or not. Then you can decide if you should hold back that extra kibble. :-)
2007-10-23 14:38:54 · answer #10 · answered by Texas Horse Lover 4 · 2⤊ 1⤋