Are we supposed to easily feel and see his spine ?

by Oli
(AZ USA)

Our Coton is so furry and fluffy that you cannot see his ribs unless you pet him. Then They are very noticeable as is his spine. He is a two year old that weighs 12 pounds but everyone comments how thin he is. I have never had this breed before. Is this Normal?.

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Dec 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		See spine NEW
by: Sharon and Jasmine

Jasmine is 2.5 years old and weighs 13.5 lb, which she has weighted for the past 1.5 years. She gets a 1.5 cup of food twice a day. Plus treats from time to time. When she is wet she looks like a drowned rat. But I don't notice her ribs or spine. This dog will eat anything. I have to put her in her crate when we eat as she will drive us nuts. My son is vegetarian so there isn't much meat around here but I do like a steak from time to time and she gets a few bites plus boiled chicken. I don't see her gaining weight as she runs around outside like wolves are chasing her. And she goes nuts trying to catch a squirrel. Driving me nuts with them. She acts like it is her mission in life.
Dec 28, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		spine NEW
by: sherry cotton candie

My 5 yr. old weighs between 10.5 and 11 pounds. I can feel her spine especially in her hip area. My other is 7 yrs old and she weighs a little over 14 and I feel is too chubby. She is very fleshy everywhere and vet says not to let her gain anymore weight.

Some do weigh more perhaps like people they are bigger boned.
I would check with the vet, does he appear hungry a lot? That can be hard to tell though. Mine can eat alot and still beg for human food like they are starved. lol

I never like to see ribs on any dog, cannot feel any on mine.
Dec 28, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Weight NEW
by: Vicky & Jonah

Most Cotons r not fat & once u give them a bath they look actually thin. The hard thing in your situation is we cannot see him. Jonah is 20#'s & not fat & yes he's big for a Coton. He eats approx. 1cup of food. Usually about 3 days out of a week he will not eat his 1/2 cup in the morning.

The best thing to do is when u take him to the vet for his yearly dhpp shot ask the vet. Keep treats to a minimum since its better they eat food over snacks & follow the amount on the bag for a 12# dog & if they seem hungry give them a little more.
Dec 28, 2015
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by: Anonymous

I have two Cotons. One weighs 14 lbs and the other nears 16 lbs. both are females and are nearing 13 years. The vet says they are in good health and has not advised if they need to lose weight. They are rather particular eaters but seem to like their treats. I cannot feel their spines through all that hair.

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