BARC
There’s now a tool to help dog owners determine if their pets are overweight or obese – or heading in that direction. Spend a few minutes taking the
BARC
(Body Assessment Rating for Canines) survey to determine if it’s time to speak to your veterinarian about tackling weight loss measures.
Is your dog of a breed that is prone to obesity, such as retrievers (Labrador and golden), beagles, basset hounds, cocker spaniels, dachshunds, shelties, and terriers?
Yes
No
Do you have a multi-dog house? (Dogs in multi-dog households tend to eat more and faster than those in one-dog households.)
Yes
No
Is your dog over 5 years old AND still being fed the same type and amount of food as when younger?
Yes
No
Feel your dog’s ribs. Do you find it difficult to determine where one rib ends and one begins?
Yes
No
Stand at your dog’s side and look at the tuck-up – the belly area between the ribcage and hindquarters. Is the body more “square-shaped” in this area?
Yes
No
Do you regularly feed your dog table scraps and/or multiple non-meal treats each day?
Yes
No
When you feed your dog, do you just pour the food into the bowl (rather than giving a specific measured amount each time)?
Yes
No
Does your dog have difficulty standing up or jumping on the couch?
Yes
No
Does your dog get
less than
20 to 30 minutes per day of outside exercise/play time?
Yes
No
This survey is not a substitute for a visit to and evaluation by a qualified veterinarian.
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The product information provided in this site is intended only for residents of the United States. The products discussed herein may have different product labeling in different countries. The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.