Dog Weight Chart & Healthy Range Calculator

Q: What health problems does obesity cause in dogs?

Obesity is linked to arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, respiratory problems, decreased immune function, increased anesthesia risk, and reduced lifespan by 1.8-2.5 years on average.

⚖️ Dog Weight Chart & Healthy Range Calculator

See if your dog’s current weight is roughly within a typical range for their size and age.

Based on generalized size classes – your vet is the final word

Understanding Dog Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things you can do for your dog's longevity and quality of life. Studies show that dogs kept at ideal weight live 1.8-2.5 years longer than overweight dogs.

Unfortunately, over 50% of dogs in developed countries are overweight or obese. This calculator helps you understand where your dog falls compared to typical weight ranges for their size class.

⚖️ Why Dog Weight Matters

Overweight dogs live significantly shorter lives
Excess weight stresses joints, causing arthritis
Obesity increases risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer
Underweight dogs may have illness or inadequate nutrition
Proper weight = more energy, better mobility, happier life

Dog Size Categories

Dogs are typically grouped by adult weight:

Small Dogs (Under 10 kg / 22 lb)

Examples: Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Maltese, Toy Poodle

Reach adult size by 10-12 months. More prone to dental issues and hypoglycemia. Small variations in weight are significant.

Medium Dogs (10-25 kg / 22-55 lb)

Examples: Beagle, Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel, Bulldog, Standard Schnauzer

Reach adult size by 12-15 months. Good balance of size and manageability.

Large Dogs (25-40 kg / 55-88 lb)

Examples: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Boxer

Reach adult size by 14-18 months. Prone to joint problems; weight management crucial.

Giant Dogs (Over 40 kg / 88 lb)

Examples: Great Dane, Mastiff, Saint Bernard, Irish Wolfhound

May not reach full size until 18-24 months. Shortest lifespans; proper weight extends life.

Understanding Body Condition Score (BCS)

Weight alone doesn't tell the whole story. Veterinarians use Body Condition Score on a 9-point scale:

BCS 1-3: Underweight

Ribs, spine, and hip bones easily visible
No palpable fat
Obvious waist and abdominal tuck
Loss of muscle mass

BCS 4-5: Ideal

Ribs easily felt but not visible
Waist visible from above
Abdominal tuck when viewed from side
Thin layer of fat over ribs

BCS 6-7: Overweight

Ribs felt with difficulty
Fat deposits on spine and base of tail
Waist barely visible
Little or no abdominal tuck

BCS 8-9: Obese

Ribs not palpable under heavy fat
No waist visible
Belly may hang down
Fat deposits on neck and limbs

Puppy Growth Patterns

Understanding normal puppy growth helps identify problems early:

3 months: ~35-40% of adult weight
6 months: ~60-70% of adult weight
9 months: ~80-90% of adult weight
12 months: ~90-100% of adult weight (small/medium breeds)
18-24 months: Adult weight (large/giant breeds)

Weight Management Tips

For Overweight Dogs

Consult your vet before starting any diet
Reduce calories by 10-20% initially
Measure food precisely—no guessing
Cut treats or switch to low-calorie options
Increase exercise gradually
Aim for 1-2% weight loss per week
Weigh weekly and adjust as needed

For Underweight Dogs

See your vet to rule out illness
Feed more calorie-dense food
Increase meal frequency
Ensure no parasites
Monitor for dental pain preventing eating

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Weight

How do I know if my dog is overweight?

Check the body condition score: You should easily feel (but not see) ribs, see a waist when looking from above, and see an abdominal tuck from the side. If ribs are hard to feel, there's no waist, or the belly sags, your dog is likely overweight.

How much should my puppy weigh at different ages?

Puppies typically reach about 35-40% of adult weight by 3 months, 60-70% by 6 months, and 90-100% by 12 months (longer for large/giant breeds). Your vet can provide breed-specific growth charts.

Is my dog's breed weight range the same as what this calculator shows?

This calculator uses general size categories. Individual breeds within each category vary. For breed-specific weight ranges, consult breed standards or your veterinarian. A healthy Chihuahua will weigh much less than a healthy Beagle.

How often should I weigh my dog?

Monthly for adult dogs maintaining weight. Weekly for puppies, pregnant dogs, or dogs on weight-loss programs. Use the same scale at the same time of day for consistency.

What health problems does obesity cause in dogs?

Obesity is linked to: arthritis and joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, respiratory problems, decreased immune function, increased anesthesia risk, and reduced lifespan (by 1.8-2.5 years on average).

Should I use a weight-loss dog food?

Weight-loss foods can help because they're lower in calories but still nutritionally complete. However, simply feeding less of regular food works too. Consult your vet for a safe weight-loss plan—crash dieting is dangerous for dogs.