6 month old lab

Question
My six month old lab weighs about 75lbs, is this to heavy. He doesn't look fat, he looks lean to me but my vet said that he looks overweight. Any suggestions? How much should he weigh?

Answer
It is quite common and very detrimental for young Labs top be over weight.  There was an extensive discussion of weight in a recent newsletter from a service dog school.

''Obesity is the number one nutritional disease affecting dogs. It's estimated that 25-45 of dogs in the US are obese. Studies have shown that joint and locomotive problems increase by 57, circulatory problems by 74, respiratory problems by 52, skin problems by 40
nd cancer by 50 in animals that are overweight.

Large breed dogs that are overweight also are more prone to developing hip dysplasia. Obesity is especially dangerous for young puppies, as their underdeveloped frame cannot support the extra poundage that it must carry.''

If your vet says your puppy is overweight, likely it is.  I can't say if 75 pounds is too heavy or not.  Evaluate the dog as illustrated in this link, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx  You may want the vet to confirm your judgment. Adjust the dogs food and exercise as needed to reach its ideal body condition.

You should also switch to adult chow if still feeding a puppy cow.  That slows growth, giving more time to develop sturdy joints.