It can often be difficult to tell if your dog is overweight. You live with him and see him on a daily basis so a few pounds here and there over time may not be noticeable at first. In fact, it's often not apparent to owners until there is a more serious concern about weight.

So just how much should your pooch weigh? You should check with your veterinarian. He can exam your dog and determine his ideal weight. He should also weigh your dog at every visit and let you know if your dog could stand to lose a few or even gain a few. There are, however, general guidelines for how much a dog should weigh.

Small breed dogs typically weigh anywhere between 4 and 19 pounds. At the lower end, you'd expect a Chihuahua to weigh about 4 pounds, while at the higher end a Boston Terrier should weigh about 19 pounds. In between would be the Pekinese at about 9 pounds and the Miniature Schnauzer at about 15 pounds.

Medium breed dogs will weigh anywhere between 25 and 35 pounds. Beagles and Cocker Spaniels are at the lower end, ideally weighing around 25 pounds, while the Brittany Spaniel would be at the higher end weighing around 35 lbs.

Large breed dogs usually weigh between 50 and 75 pounds. The Airedale Terrier and the Siberian Husky should weigh around 50 pounds. The Pointer should weigh around 65 pounds and the Labrador Retriever around 75 pounds.