Maintaining A Healthy Weight
Goal: Guide dogs must be maintained at a healthy weight. While the pup is growing it's important to ensure the pup isn't over or underweight by following the feeding guidelines post under the care section. Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for the overall health and longevity of the dog. When a dog is overweight it limits their mobility and can significantly decrease their life span and cause secondary health issues like pancreatitis, diabetes, and arthritis.
Evaluating Body Condition
Under 6 months the pup might go through phases where they are chunky and have a belly. But, you can still feel their ribs when you run your hands over their body.
Under 6 months the pup might go through phases where they are chunky and have a belly. But, you can still feel their ribs when you run your hands over their body. Labs love to eat! They're easily motivated by food and it makes training them easier. However, they can be very convincing and try to tell you they need more food. Frequently treating the dog to food that isn't allocated from their meals can cause weight gain and should be avoided.
Below are two healthy dogs. From the side, their ribs aren’t visible, but if you ran your hands over their side you would feel them. Also, you can see an accentuated waist.