The Body Condition Score Guide
Helping you understand your dog’s ideal body condition score (BCS) — one gentle feel at a time.
What Is BCS (and Why It Matters)
Healthy doesn’t mean thin or chubby — it means balanced.
Your dog’s Body Condition Score (BCS) is a quick way to check if their body weight suits their frame and lifestyle. It focuses on what really matters — how your dog looks and feels, not just what the scale says.
Maintain stronger joints and muscles
Stay energetic and active
Build better immunity
Live a longer, happier life
🐶 Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before — you’ll get the hang of it in minutes!
How to Check Your Dog’s BCS
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1 / Ribs
Run your fingers gently over your dog’s sides.
You should be able to feel the ribs easily under a light fat cover — not sharp, not hidden.
2 / Waist (Top View)
Stand above your dog and look down.
There should be a clear inward curve behind the ribs.
3 / Tummy Tuck (Side View)
From the side, the belly should slope upward, not hang low.
🐕 Fluffy dog? Use your hands more than your eyes — fur can hide shape, but your touch won’t.
The Rib Feel Test
Your hands are the best tool you already have
Here’s a simple way to understand what your dog’s ribs should feel like compared to areas on a human hand👇
Human Hand Area
Feels Like
Kuckles
Hard, bony, no padding
BCS Equivalent
1–2 (Too Thin)
Back of Hand
Smooth, bones palpable under a light layer
3 (Ideal)
Description
Ribs feel sharp or ridge-like. Your dog may need more nourishment.
Firm but not bony — this is the perfect feel.
Palm
Soft, cushioned, no bones felt
4–5 (Overweight)
Soft feel, ribs hard to find — time for gentle diet tweaks.
💡 Pro Tip: Everyone’s hands are a little different — so use this as a feel guide, not a measurement.
Always assess your dog’s ribs, waist, and belly together for the full picture.
The 5-Point BCS Scale
Score
1 – Too Thin
Condition
Ribs, spine, and hips visible
What You’ll See & Feel
Sharp ribs, deep tummy tuck
What It Means
Needs more calories or a vet check
2 – Underweight
Ribs, spine, and hips visible
Visible waist, defined tuck
Slightly lean — may need more food or protein
3 – Ideal
Ribs felt under light fat, visible waist and tuck
Smooth outline, strong energy
Perfect balance — maintain current routine
4 – Overweight
Ribs harder to feel, waist less defined
Rounder shape, soft feel
Could benefit from smaller portions or more activity
5 – Obese
No waist or tuck, heavy fat cover
Ribs not felt, broad frame
Needs gradual, vet-guided weight adjustment
From Our Veterinary Team
“A healthy body condition isn’t about size — it’s about comfort, mobility, and confidence.
Every dog is unique, so focus on how they feel and move, not how they look next to another dog.”
— The Barkology Club Veterinary Team