overweight puppy

Question
Hi i have just taken on a 19 week old chocolate lab puppy, we were told that he was a bit of a handful but we have not had a problems with him at all. He is very over weight 18.9kg and almost 3in tall the his brother, he is not bouncy like a puppy this age usually is and sleeps most of the day i have been taking him out daily for around a 20 min walk with my springer  he wants to keep stopping to lie down. He drinks bowls of water every day and barks to let me know he needs more. What sort of diet should i have him on? how much exercise should he be having?

Answer
Switching to an adult chow for the larger breeds at 4 months, slows growth and helps develop sturdier joints.  The less calorie dense chow should help him too.  If you are feeding the Springer a dry adult chow, it should be fine for him.  Start with about 3 cups or less.  

Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx

It is very important to get his weight down.  Continue the walks and other low impact exercise.  Don't encourage running and jumping.