Should I be able to feel my dog's ribs?

A healthy layer of fat over the ribs is thin enough that each rib is distinct under light finger pressure but not so thin that the ribs are sharply defined or visible from a distance.

If pressing firmly is needed to feel any rib definition at all, that generally points toward extra weight, while ribs that are immediately obvious to the eye without touching generally point toward being underweight.

Naturally lean, athletic breeds such as sighthounds are commonly expected to show some visible rib outline even at a healthy weight, which is normal for their build rather than a sign of being underweight.

Stockier, heavier boned breeds may have a thicker natural covering, but the ribs should still be findable with light pressure even on these breeds at a healthy weight.

Run this simple rib check every couple of weeks as part of a regular routine, ideally at a similar time relative to meals for consistency.

If you are ever unsure whether what you are feeling is normal for your dog's specific breed and build, ask your vet to check alongside you at a routine visit, since a hands on demonstration is far clearer than any written description could ever be, and it only takes a minute or two of extra time during a routine appointment you are already attending.