Help! My Dog Needs To Gain Weight

Helping Your Dog Gain Weight Safely

Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight is essential, but weight gain should always be approached thoughtfully and methodically. Follow this structured process to rule out underlying issues and adjust their diet effectively.

Step 1: Schedule a Vet Check-Up

If your dog hasn’t had a recent vet visit, book a health check to rule out any medical conditions affecting their weight. It’s also crucial to assess their body condition, as perceptions of canine health can vary—many healthy dogs are mistakenly labelled as underweight.

📌 Body Condition Score Guide:

✔️ Score 4-6 – No need for weight gain.

✔️ Score 1-3 – Requires intervention for weight improvement.

Step 2: Rule Out Other Health Factors

If no medical issues are detected, conduct a Wormcount, Lungworm count, and Giardia test to eliminate potential parasites affecting digestion and weight.

💡 Tip: Order testing kits from Feclab and check out the Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple (UK) exclusive discount codes.

Step 3: Dietary Adjustments

⚠️ Not Yet Raw-Fed? We strongly recommend transitioning to a raw diet for improved gut health, digestion, and nutrient absorption. Follow our step-by-step blog guides to make the switch smoothly.

⚠️ Already Raw-Fed but Experiencing Gut Upsets? If your dog has ongoing stomach issues, first follow our Gut Reset Protocol before starting a weight gain journey.

Step 4: Feeding Adjustments for Underweight Dogs

📊 Check Your Dog’s Feeding Amount:

Using our feeding calculator, compare your dog’s current intake against recommended amounts. If they score below 4 on the body condition chart:

✔️ Increase daily food allowance by 0.5% if already feeding the suggested amount.

✔️ Increase by 1% per week if underfeeding.

📝 Maintain a Food Diary

• Record brand, protein sources, and amounts fed.

• Small changes matter—slow and steady adjustments prevent digestive issues.

  
  

📌 Reassessment Timeline🔹 After 2 weeks:

• If additional weight gain is needed, opt for higher fat proteins over lean options.

• Increase feeding amount by another 0.5%, or by 1% if still below recommended intake.

🔹 After 4 weeks: If no visible improvement, seek community support by posting in the Raw Feeding for Dogs Made Simple (UK) Facebook Group and sharing:

📍 Four-week food diary

📍 Pre-feeding photos (above & side angles)

By monitoring your dog’s intake and making gradual, well-balanced adjustments, you can ensure they reach and maintain a healthy weight safely. 🐾

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