How to Help Your Dog Gain Weight and Add Some Beef

Seeing your dog’s ribs or being able to feel their spine and pelvic bones is a clear sign they are underweight. When a dog is too skinny, it can negatively impact their health and quality of life. Thankfully, with some dietary tweaks and lifestyle changes, you can help your underweight dog gain weight in a healthy way.

Signs Your Dog is Underweight

Here are some signs that indicate your dog is too skinny and needs to gain weight:

• Ribs, spine and hip bones are visible and easily felt through a thin layer of skin
• Noticeable tuck at waist when viewed from above
• Lethargy, low energy and sluggishness
• Dull, brittle coat
• Loss of muscle mass

If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, the first step is to take them to the vet. Getting your vet’s opinion will rule out any underlying illness causing the weight issues. Certain health conditions like diabetes and hyperthyroidism can lead to weight loss.

Common Causes of Underweight Dogs

Once medical problems are ruled out, here are some potential reasons dogs have trouble maintaining weight:

• Picky eating or lack of appetite
• High metabolism
• Stress or anxiety
• Insufficient calorie intake
• Dental pain making chewing difficult
• Gastrointestinal issues impacting nutrient absorption
• Too much exercise and activity
• Effects of aging

Tips for Helping Your Dog Gain Weight

If the vet gives your skinny dog a clean bill of health, here are some tips to help them fill out and add some beef to their bones:

• Feed a high-calorie dog food – Choose a brand with higher fat and protein levels. Seek foods designed for underweight or senior dogs.

• Add food toppers – Mix-ins like cottage cheese, oils, peanut butter and eggs provide extra calories.

• Offer small, frequent meals – Breaking meals into 3-4 smaller portions spaced throughout the day can encourage eating.

• Try wet or fresh foods – The smell and taste may entice picky eaters more than dry kibble.

• Avoid too much exercise after eating – Let your dog rest 30+ minutes after meals so the body can focus on digestion, not activity.

• Userewards during training – Healthy treats in moderation provide extra calories.

• Consider prescription weight gain diets – Under veterinary guidance, these calorie-dense foods can effectively add pounds.

• Be patient and consistent – Helping a dog gain weight takes diligence. Stick to a regimen for multiple weeks to see results.

Foods That Help Dogs Gain Weight

Supplementing your underweight dog’s regular diet with calorie-rich add-ins can help them gain weight. Here are some healthy options:

• Cottage cheese
• Raw or cooked eggs
• Salmon or sardine oil
• Plain yogurt
• Peanut butter
• Cooked oatmeal
• Sweet potatoes
• Pumpkin
• Lean ground meat

Check with your vet before significantly changing your dog’s diet. Sudden large additions can cause gastrointestinal upset. Transition to new foods gradually over 7-10 days.

Providing Proper Nutrition for Weight Gain

The goal is to help your dog gain weight in a healthy, sustainable way – not just pile on pounds fast. Be sure to feed them foods that provide complete and balanced nutrition. Avoid junk foods that only supply empty calories.

With vet approval, transition your underweight dog to a high-quality dog food designed for added calories and nutrition. Combine that with measured meal portions plus healthy add-ins like cooked eggs, yogurt and fresh meat.

With the right diet and exercise regimen tailored to their needs, you can help your skinny dog fill out and get back to a normal weight. Consistency and patience are key – stick with the program and monitor their weight weekly.

If you don’t see improvements within a few weeks, follow up with your veterinarian. With your diligent care and effort, your underweight dog will be back to their happy, playful self in no time.