Obesity in dogs is so common that many owners may not realize when their pet is overweight. Often, a healthy dog should be much leaner than people might assume. But how do you determine if your dog is too lean?
Maintaining your dog’s ideal weight and ensuring they receive the right nutrients and calories is essential for their health. Here’s a look at how to assess if your dog might be underweight and, if so, what steps you can take to address it.
Is My Dog Underweight?
Many dogs who appear thin are actually at their ideal body condition. Dogs should have a noticeable waist when viewed from above and an abdomen that tucks up when seen from the side. Additionally, you should be able to feel a dog’s ribs easily by running your hands down their sides. However, a dog's waist can sometimes be too defined, the abdomen overly tucked, and the ribs too visible, indicating that they may be underweight.
Recognizing when your dog is below their ideal weight is crucial, as it can point to an inadequate diet or other health issues. Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinarian for the CKC (Canine Kennel Club), highlights that although obesity is a more common concern, “If a dog is underweight, it should be examined by a veterinarian to ensure there are no underlying medical issues.”
Signs Your Dog Is Underweight
How can you assess if your dog is underweight? Start by consulting your veterinarian. Because you see your dog daily, subtle changes in weight can be easy to miss, so it's essential to get a professional opinion. Your vet can determine your dog’s body condition score and guide you on what signs to monitor.
Underweight dogs often appear gaunt or bony. According to Dr. Klein, Chief Veterinarian for the CKC (Canine Kennel Club), the following signs typically indicate an underweight dog in most breeds:
- Clearly visible ribs when viewed from the side (although seeing the last rib isn’t always a concern).
- Multiple ribs visible when viewed from above.
- Prominent hip bones and visible bones along the top of the spinal column.
Does a Dog’s Breed Affect Signs of Being Underweight?
These signs generally indicate underweight conditions for most breeds, but not all. Different breeds have unique ideal shapes. For instance, Bulldogs have a very different physique from Salukis. Sighthounds like Salukis are naturally lean, and people often misinterpret them as underweight. Dr. Klein notes that the morphology of a Sighthound differs from that of a Rottweiler. Breeds with a Greyhound-like build are naturally lighter and leaner. Pronounced hip bones are a desirable trait in ancient Sighthound breeds like Afghan Hounds or Azawakhs. Consulting your veterinarian or breeder can help you understand your dog’s ideal body condition.
What Causes a Dog to Be Underweight?
There are several reasons why a dog might be underweight. The most obvious is an insufficient diet. Dr. Klein explains that a diet can lack the necessary calories or essential nutrients, meaning the food is incomplete or unbalanced. Not all dog foods have the same quality ingredients, and treats and table scraps can also affect nutritional balance.
Medical issues can also impact a dog’s weight. For example, internal parasites like worms can lead to weight loss, as can dental problems that make eating painful. Other potential causes include metabolic diseases such as diabetes, infectious diseases, and neoplasia (uncontrolled cell growth that can result in tumors).
How to Help an Underweight Dog Gain Weight
If you suspect your dog is underweight, don’t just add more food to their bowl. Weight loss can result from various causes, so it’s crucial to get a complete veterinary check-up. Additional food won’t address conditions like worms. Your veterinarian will develop a treatment plan based on the underlying cause of the weight loss.
If the issue is dietary, your vet might refer you to a veterinary nutritionist. It can be tempting to offer high-calorie foods like raw meatballs or rich items, but rapid weight gain is unhealthy. High-calorie ingredients may also increase the risk of illnesses like E. coli or pancreatitis. Your dog’s diet should be balanced and nutrient-rich. Dr. Klein suggests, “Depending on your veterinarian’s diagnosis and treatment plan, they may recommend gradually transitioning to a higher-calorie or therapeutic diet or increasing the feeding frequency. It’s essential to maintain a well-balanced diet, as excessive supplements or table scraps can cause imbalances or other health issues.”
If you rescue an emaciated dog, consult a vet before feeding them. To avoid refeeding syndrome a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a malnourished animal suddenly receives food a managed approach to feeding is essential.