Checking Your Dog’s Weight
Checking your dog’s weight is important as it can help you understand the health status of your pet. As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to check their weight regularly and to take action if necessary. Managing your pet’s weight can not only help prevent obesity, but also help manage their mobility and prevent joint stiffness.
Here at Petmania, you can check your dog’s weight for free by using our weighing scales that are available in all 15 locations nationwide. We’ve put together a helpful guide on how you can use the in-store weighing scales to help you manage your beloved four legged friend’s weight, keeping them healthy and happy!
How To Use Petmania Weighing Scales
Checking your dog’s weight in-store couldn’t be easier. Check out the steps below on how you can avail of this free service.
- Firstly, turn on the weighing scales, and wait for it to set to 0.
- Gently pop your dog on the scales, and wait for a moment until their weight shows.
- And that’s it!
What If My Dog Doesn’t Stay Still?
If your dog is a bit over-excited, pop yourself on the weighing scales along with your dog so you can secure them, and make note of your combined weight. Then, set the scales to zero again by pressing the ‘tare’ button and weigh yourself only. Subtract the difference between the two weights and now you have the weight of your pet.
Why Is Weighing My Dog Important?
Your dog’s weight can be a great indicator of their health. If you find your pet is under or overweight, it is important to take them to the local vet so they can provide any necessary steps to get them to their ideal weight. Regular visits to the vet and weight logs can help your vet determine if your pet is gaining or losing weight, as both can pose health issues for our furry friends.
How Often Should I Weigh My Dog?
If your dog’s BCS is in the ‘ideal’ category, a weight check every 3 months is advised.
If your doggie is on a diet, you should track his weight alongside his BCS at least every 4 weeks
Puppies and dogs with medical conditions causing a decrease in appetite or water consumption should be weighed much more frequently, in order to detect any major changes quickly.
Weight Tracker Service
We offer a free weight-tracking and reminder service in-store for all dogs and cats. Register with us in-store and we will store your pet’s weight and BCS on their record, helping you to track their weight at every visit. We will also send you free reminders when your pet’s next weight check is due, helping you to keep your pet on the right track.
How to Check Your Dog’s Weight at Home
If your dog is small enough to lift, and you can hold him still for at least a few seconds, then you can weigh him on your bathroom scale. If your dog does not like being picked up and held, do not force him to be weighed this way, and instead adopt the method mentioned above where you weigh yourself, then weigh your dog, and subtract your weight from the combined weight of you and your dog to determine his weight.
What is Body Condition Score?
The Body Condition Score is an international scale, widely used to assess whether or not a dog is under weight, over weight, or at an ideal level.
The Body Condition Score is a ranking scale form 1-9, with 1 being dangerously thin, and 9 being dangerously obese. The ideal score for your dog is 4-5. Dogs with a score of 1-2 or above 7 should attend their vet immediately, as they may be at risk of serious health complications. If you dog is registering in these brackets, please do not attempt to adjust your pet’s diet or weight without veterinary supervision.
At all times, if your dog is showing any signs of distress, or experiences sudden weight loss or gain, please consult with your veterinarian.
Vet Carol Doyle has put together a helpful guide on how you can check your dog’s BCS here.
