As a quick conclusion, you don't have to be an experienced vet to learn how to weigh your dog safely. It's about being ingenious and using your head. Some solutions work better than others as well.
You may be tempted by the saying "the right tool for the right job" - and by now you should have a pretty good idea how to weigh your dog with the aid of your vet. There are basically two ways to go about it: using electronic or standard electronic scales. While both can give you an idea of the ideal weight, they also use precise measurements that make them unsuitable for smaller dogs, particularly those that are very active. Your dog may also have other moods when excited. So, when weighing it using these two methods, you will be very overwhelmed.
But what can you do if you don't have access to a vet or a measuring device? You can try the ideal weight scale, which is often available in veterinary hospitals or vet clinics. This device allows you to measure your dog's weight accurately, regardless of how much activity it experiences during the day or night. Most ideal weight scales are digital and come with a user manual. These are usually calibrated in grams and pounds and have a range of up to 5 kilograms.
Once you have your ideal weight: you will have to decide on what units to use. Most vets recommend that you use the metric system, since it closely follows the standard of universal measurement. You should also make sure that you use a scale that is stable and easily maintained. You may want to take it outside once in a while to make sure it stays on an even balance.
A good option for those who don't have the time or resources: needed to get a proper scale is to ask your vet for a large scale model. A vet-grade scale is usually heavier and sturdier than the models found in drug stores, since dogs are more sensitive to uneven weight distribution than people. The downside is that these models can be more expensive and take up more storage space. In addition, you need to remember that even large scales cannot determine the weight of a dog that weighs far less than it should. So, if you find out that your dog is only 10 pounds, it's best to consult your vet for the best options for weighing your dog at home.
How to weigh your pet is not just as important for dog owners as it is for pet owners: You also need to consider how much comfort your pet gets from a regular lifestyle, whether or not it has mobility problems and if it needs special accessories. So, if you're running low on time before your next trip or if your pet is constantly gasping for breath during long walks, there are ways to ensure that you provide your pet with the best possible travel conditions while maximizing the enjoyment of your trip.
If you want to know how to weigh your dog, a pet stroller or a portable dog bowl are good starting points.
