How to track a weight issue

A Practical, Supportive Guide to Tracking Your Dog’s Weight

Managing a dog’s weight is rarely a straight line. Genetics, lifestyle, age, and health history all play a role, which is why a structured, observation‑based approach is so valuable. As canine nutritionists, our role is to help you understand what to monitor so you can make informed decisions and recognise patterns that may influence your dog’s progress.

Below are the key areas to track when supporting a dog through either weight gain or weight reduction. None of these replace veterinary care, but together they build a clear picture of your dog’s day‑to‑day needs.

What to Track

Recent Veterinary Check

A current vet check helps rule out underlying conditions that may influence weight. Make a note of:

• Spay/neuter status

• Any relevant medical findings

• Any recommendations your vet has provided

  
  

Medication

Record:

• Medication names

• Amounts prescribed

• Reason for use

Some medications may influence appetite, activity, or digestion. We never advise altering or stopping prescribed medication, but knowing what your dog is taking helps us understand their overall picture.

Supplements

List:

• Brand

• Product name

• Amount given vs Amount eaten

This helps ensure clarity around your dog’s full nutritional intake.

Daily Activity

Capture a realistic view of your dog’s movement and enrichment, including:

• On‑lead walks

• Off‑lead exercise

• Play with other dogs

• Solo play

• General mooching around the home or garden

• Training sessions (general or specialised)

This isn’t about “more is better”—it’s about understanding your dog’s routine.

Treats

Note:

• Brand

• Product name

• Quantity fed in weight

Treats can contribute more to daily intake than many people realise.

Digestive Observations

Track stool consistency and colour using a standardised poop scale. This helps identify how well your dog is tolerating their current diet.

Accidental Ingestions

Record any non‑food items eaten. Even small incidents can influence appetite, digestion, or behaviour.

Eggs & Oily Fish

Note the type and amount fed of both eggs and oily fish. These foods contribute to overall nutritional intake and should be accounted for.

Diet Details

Include:

• Brand and product name of all foods

• Amount fed

• Chews

• Any non‑raw items

This provides a complete overview of your dog’s intake.

Starting Weight, Age & Photos

Record:

• Initial weight

• Age

• Clear photos from above and from the side

These visual references help track subtle changes over time. It's also a smart option to assess your dogs body condition yourself using our diagrams - there is no better judge of body condition than someone who can lay their hands on a dog to make this assessment. Vets and Vet Nurses can usually give you a good idea too.

Why This Matters

Consistent tracking gives you a clearer understanding of what supports your dog’s wellbeing and where adjustments may be helpful. Weight management is not about perfection—it’s about informed, steady progress. With structured observations and thoughtful changes, you can support your dog in a way that is safe, realistic, and tailored to them.