Overeating is an epidemic in America, but it doesn’t just affect humans. Obesity can affect your pet too. The key is knowing if your dog is overweight.

First, pet your dog down the side of his back. You should be able to feel the outline of his ribs, but you shouldn’t be able to see them. If your dog is overweight, you may not be able to feel the ribs at all. If you have to push hard, or if there’s a layer of fat above the ribs, your dog is definitely overweight.

You should be able to see an abdominal tuck, which means the chest reduces at the waist towards the back end. If there is no abdominal tuck, your dog is carrying extra weight.

If you could use help getting your dog back to a healthier weight, click here, or schedule an appointment with your veterinary clinic Livonia, MI.