How do you know if your dog is underweight
Is My Dog Too Skinny? How To Tell If Your Dog Is Underweight
It can be difficult to tell if dogs are underweight. Some dog breeds naturally have more svelte builds, while other dog breeds can be a bit more stocky.
Feeding your dog the right amount of food and keeping them at an appropriate weight are crucial aspects of maintaining your dogs health.
Now more than ever, veterinarians say canine obesity is on the rise, and so are the health risks associated with overweight dogs. But being underweight can cause health problems for dogs too.
If you think your dog is losing weight too quickly or that theyre underweight, be sure to talk to your veterinarian before doing anything else.
Remember, if your vet confirms that you have an underweight dog on your hands, its important that you take their advice to heart. Heres what you need to know about finding out if your dog is underweight.
Tests To Tell If Your Dog Is Underweight
It might be difficult to get your dog on a scale at home, especially with a bigger dog! Fortunately, there are other ways to tell if your dog is too skinny and needs to gain some weight.
Check your dogs ribs. If theyre very visible and bony to the touch you can feel your fingers go up and down the individual rib bones then your dog might be underweight.
Again, its important to note that some dog breeds, especially smaller ones, might be healthy with a slim stature. This is why it is so important to check in with your vet if you suspect your dog is underweight.
Another way to check if your dog is too skinny is to look at them from above. If the curve from their hips to their ribs is prominent, it might be a sign your dog is underweight. A protruding lower backbone or pelvic bone is also a sign that your dog might need to put on some pounds.
These at-home dog weight tests are just to gauge whats going on with your dog. No matter what, you should go to your veterinarian and make sure you have a proper diagnosis in order to help your dog safely gain back weight.
Steps To Take If Your Dog Is Underweight
If you think that your dog is underweight, there are a few steps to take to ensure that youre giving your dog the best care.There are a host of reasons as to why your dog might be underweight, and in order to correctly treat them, your vet needs to know why.
First, be sure to monitor your dogs eating habits. Do they inhale it all? Or do they not seem to have an appetite?
Make sure youre feeding your dog the right amount of food. If your dog is a fast eater and seems eager for more, you may not be feeding them enough food. Check your dog foods nutrition guidelines and adjust your dogs diet accordingly with your vets advice.
If youve monitored your dogs eating habits and food portions, and they still seem too skinny, its time to go to the vet. If your veterinarian says your dog is officially underweight, be sure to follow their instructions to make sure your pup has a safe and speedy recovery.
Has your dog ever been underweight? What did you do to help them get back to a healthy weight? Let us know in the comments below!
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Underweight
While an overweight dog is pretty easy to spot, it can be trickier to tell if a dog is underweight. Different breeds and body shapes carry fat differently, and animals weight can fluctuate over their lives. But its important to keep an eye out for, and address, sudden or unexplained weight loss as it can be a sign of other health issues.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Underweight?
Check Their Ribs
For most breeds, a healthy weight means youre able to feel their ribs under a light layer of fat. Although, the bones shouldnt be overly prominent or visibly sticking out. If your dog is underweight you might feel that the area is all skin and bone (with no noticeable tissue).
Check the Base of Their Tail
Feel the base of their tail for protruding bones. As with the ribs, the area should be soft and cushiony without visible protrusions.
Check Their Shoulders and Spine
Once again you should be able to feel the bones here under a light layer of fat. If there is no tissue or theyre starkly protruding they could be too thin.
Take a Birds Eye View
Stand over your dog to check their outline from above. While you want there to be a visible waist, it shouldnt be extreme and their spine, ribs, and hip bones shouldnt be visible.
Take a Birds Eye View
Their tummy should be even with their ribcage, rather than sharply rise up between the hips and ribs. Although, remember this can be subjective depending on breeds. For example, a sharp rise can be natural in a greyhound.
Why Your Dog Is Underweight
Before addressing their weight, its important to think about why your dog is looking skinny. Some animals are fussy eaters or just not food motivated (more on that below). But low weight can also be an indicator of something more serious. If your dogs weight doesnt seem food related, its important to chat to your vet. They can check if this is a symptom of a larger health issue such as thyroid problems, diabetes, or parasites. Its also important to have your pets teeth examined. They may be hungry but struggling with pain or chewing.Also, consider their mental health. Like people, dogs experience stress, anxiety, and depression which can cause them to lose interest in their dinner. There are lots of ways to manage this that extend beyond what theyre eating. Once again, chat to your vet. Finally, remember their birthday. Its not uncommon for a dogs appetite to change and reduce as they get older. This could be because theyre literally moving less so not burning as much energy, or they could be struggling with digestion. Either way, its worth chatting to your vet (again) about their changing needs. They could require a new feeding plan with different nutritional considerations.
How to Get Your Dog to Gain Weight
Use a Feeding Calculator
If your dog is underweight the first action is often to check theyre eating enough of the right kind of food. A feeding calculator can let you know how many calories they should be consuming for their age, breed, and activity level.
Increase (Good) Calories
Dog foods brands vary a lot when it comes to nutritional value, so you should be thinking about more than just the number of calories per serve. Think of your diet: you dont want to hit enough calories through junk, you want a balanced and varied selection of proteins, carbs, fats, and micronutrients.Some good ways to do this is to focus on healthy oils like salmon and coconut that are high in Omega 3 and 6, as well as DHA to support brain development and healthy fur. Just be aware that its not a more is better situation: overdoing it on fats and oils can cause other issues. Consider feeding them a premade product from a high quality, nutritionally complete brand that develops their recipes with dog nutritional specialists.
Mix up Their Routine
A dogs appetite might not always coincide with dinner time. Try giving them several smaller meals across the day or free feeding (leaving food out for them to eat at their own leisure). Usually free feeding isnt ideal as it can lead to overeating, but if your dog is underweight, and thats not a concern, it can be a good way to ensure theres food available if temptation strikes.
Tempt Them
Switching up their regular food might not be enough to get them excited about eating more. Try a new (well balanced) brand or recipe, add fun toppers like yogurt or fresh meat to their meal, or simply be more generous with the (healthy) snacks.Helping your dog gain weight can mean breaking good habits youve learned (limiting snacks, regular feeding times etc). Thats ok if youre working to get them back to a healthy size. Just make sure you dont let the habits become permanent once theyre feeling better. In which case, you might need to head over here.
For more on healthy weight, food, and feeding:How to Tell If Your Dog Is OverweightHow to Help Your Dog Lose WeightHow to Choose the Best Dry Dog Food
Written by Wendy Syfret on May 12, 2021 forOff The Leash
Article last updated on March 23, 2022
Wendy's never met a dog she didn't like. Although she has a special place in her heart for muts: three legs, one eye, missing fur, bit of a weird walk? The scruffier the better. Her favourite dog in the whole world though is her terrier-mix Stevie.
Is Your Dog Underweight? How to Tell and What to Do About It
We all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy, but sometimes it can be hard to tell if they are underweight. In fact, research has shown that millions of pets are overindulged with treats every day, leading to potential health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. As a responsible pet owner, it's important to be aware of your pet's weight and take action if necessary. In this article, we will explore how to tell if your dog is underweight and what you can do to help them.
How to Tell if Your Dog is Underweight
Feel Their Ribs
One way to determine if your dog is underweight is by feeling their ribs. When you gently run your hands along their sides, you should be able to feel their ribs with light pressure. If the bones are prominent, this may indicate that your dog is underweight. On the other hand, if you have to press more firmly to feel their ribs, it could mean that they have excess fat and are overweight.
Feel Their Spine
You can also assess your dog's weight by feeling their spine. With light pressure, you should be able to feel the bones along their spine. However, if the bumps along the spine are protruding, this might suggest that your dog is underweight. If you cannot feel their spine even when pressing more firmly, there is a possibility that they are overweight.
Look at Your Dog From All Angles
Simply observing your dog's shape can give you a quick indication of their weight. If they appear rounded and oval-shaped, it could be a sign that they are overweight. On the other hand, if your dog has a defined waist and rear, they are likely at a healthy weight.
Examine Their Behavior & Habits
As a pet owner, you know your dog best, and changes in their behavior can be a strong indicator of weight gain. If your dog is less active, spends more time on the sofa, or has difficulty breathing, it could be due to weight gain.
Weigh Your Dog
Just like humans, dogs can step on a scale too. Weighing your dog is an effective way to determine if they are underweight, overweight, or at a healthy weight. You can use the scales available at most veterinary surgeries for free, or you can weigh them at home if you have a suitable scale.
Consult Your Vet
If you have concerns about your dog's weight and would like professional guidance, it's always a good idea to consult your veterinarian. They have the expertise to accurately assess your dog's weight and can provide you with the best advice based on their evaluation.
Now that you know how to tell if your dog is underweight, you may be wondering what steps you can take to help them. Here are some tips:
- Adjust their diet: Consult with your vet to ensure that your dog is receiving the right amount of nutrients for their age, breed, and activity level.
- Monitor their food intake: Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overfeeding. Consider using a measuring cup to accurately measure their food.
- Provide regular exercise: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Engage in activities that suit your dog's breed and energy level.
- Avoid excessive treats: While treats can be a great way to reward your dog, be mindful of the calories they add to their diet. Opt for healthier treat options or use alternative rewards such as praise or playtime.
- Follow your vet's advice: Your veterinarian may recommend additional steps based on your dog's specific needs. Follow their guidance for the best results.
Remember, maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your dog's overall well-being. By being proactive and attentive to their weight, you can ensure that they live a long and happy life.
At HowPetCare, we are dedicated to providing pet owners with valuable information and resources. For more pet care tips and advice, visit HowPetCare.
FAQs
How do I know if my dog is underweight?To determine if your dog is underweight, you can feel their ribs and spine, observe their body shape, and monitor any changes in their behavior and habits.
What should I do if my dog is underweight?If your dog is underweight, consult your veterinarian for guidance. They can provide recommendations on adjusting their diet, monitoring food intake, and ensuring regular exercise.
Can I weigh my dog at home?Yes, you can weigh your dog at home if you have a suitable scale. However, it's recommended to consult with your veterinarian for accurate weight assessment.
What are the risks of having an underweight dog?Underweight dogs may be more susceptible to health issues such as weakened immune system, nutrient deficiencies, and decreased energy levels.
How often should I weigh my dog?The frequency of weighing your dog depends on their specific needs and any underlying health conditions. Your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate schedule.
Are certain breeds more prone to being underweight?Some dog breeds may naturally have a leaner build, but it's important to ensure that they are still within a healthy weight range. Consult your vet for breed-specific guidelines.
Can stress cause a dog to become underweight?Yes, stress can impact a dog's appetite and lead to weight loss. If you suspect that stress is causing your dog to lose weight, consult with your veterinarian for appropriate interventions.
Should I change my dog's diet if they are underweight?Changing your dog's diet should be done under the guidance of your veterinarian. They can recommend the appropriate adjustments to ensure your dog receives adequate nutrition.
Can parasites cause a dog to be underweight?Yes, certain parasites such as worms can contribute to weight loss in dogs. Regular deworming and preventive measures recommended by your vet can help address this issue.
Is it possible for a dog to be underweight despite eating enough?Yes, there can be underlying health conditions or metabolic issues that contribute to a dog being underweight. Consulting with your veterinarian is essential to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Key Points
- Feeling your dog's ribs and spine can help determine if they are underweight or overweight.
- Observing their body shape and behavior can provide additional clues about their weight.
- Weighing your dog and consulting with your vet are important steps in assessing their weight.
- Adjusting their diet, monitoring food intake, providing regular exercise, and following your vet's advice are key actions to help an underweight dog.
- HowPetCare offers valuable pet care tips and resources for pet owners. Visit HowPetCare for more information.