How Dogs Can Gain Weight Safely
As dog owners, when it comes to our much-loved pets, we of course want them to be in their best shape possible. Even though it is possible for the healthiest dogs to be a little under or overweight, it is important to watch out for sudden weight reduction as there could be a serious underlying health problem. If your dog is too underweight, you may be wondering the best way to safely help them gain weight. Luckily there are many options to consider, such as a dog weight gainer supplement, before you need to break the bank with a visit to the vet.
Before taking the steps to increase your pet’s weight it is important to understand why they may be losing their appetite.
What can cause a dog to lose too much weight?
There are many reasons as to why dogs lose weight. From simple problems such as being picky eaters but there are also a couple more concerning reasons why your pup cannot maintain a healthy mass. If your dog is steadily shedding pounds and you can’t figure out why, there are a few potential causes:
- Poor diet
A poor diet is the number one factor contributing to a dog’s weight loss. This can happen when there are not enough nutrients or calories in your pet’s diet to support their needs. If their diet is not well balanced, it can result in malnutrition and gradual weight loss over time.
- Parasites
Parasites can be a common cause of weight loss in dogs as they feed and survive off of your dog’s nutrients. If you suspect that your pup has parasites, it is important to take them to the vet as quickly as possible to get them treated.
- Stress
Stress is very common in underweight pets and can significantly decrease a dog’s appetite. If this is the case, it is important to contact your vet and discuss ways to reduce your pup’s stress levels and get them eating again.
What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy weight gain?
It’s important to understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy weight gain before starting your dog’s weight-gaining journey. Unhealthy weight gain is when your pup puts on weight due to eating unhealthy, calorie-dense foods. Whereas, healthy weight gain is when your pup puts on weight due to a balanced diet containing nutrient-dense foods rich in amino acids, protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Here are the best ways to help your dog gain weight safely:
Increase your dog’s caloric intake
A key part of helping your dog gain weight safely is by increasing their caloric and protein intake with high-quality dog food. A good rule of thumb is that if your dog is underweight then they should be consuming at least 20-30% more than their maintenance calorie requirements. This can be achieved by increasing their meals or adding calorie-dense foods to their diet.
When used in moderation, adding extra treats to your dog’s diet is a great way to help them gain weight. Calorie-dense treats can be found in the form of freeze-dried meats, jerky, and also moist treats. These treats contain even more nutrition and calories and also can be wonderful for assisting your pup in gaining added pounds.
When choosing treats for weight gain, it is important to make certain you choose ones that are made from high-quality ingredients to guarantee your dog is obtaining the healthy nourishment they require. This means avoiding treats with artificial flavours and additives.
Add a dog weight gainer supplement to your dog’s diet
Paired with a balanced diet a dog weight gainer supplement can help get your pooch to their ideal weight. Such weight gain supplements are palatable powders that can be added to dog food and contain high protein for muscle building and essential nutrients specifically designed to aid in weight gain.
When choosing a dog weight gainer supplement it is important to look for trusted, reliable brands which use natural ingredients. We recommend the brand Petastical’s dog weight gainer supplement as it is an all-natural whey protein powder suitable for all dog breeds: https://www.petastical.com/product/petastical-dog-weight-gainer-supplement/
Exercise to build muscle mass
In addition to diet, exercise can also help your dog gain weight safely. Exercise is extremely effective to build additional muscle. This is a healthy way for your pup to put on weight without adding too much fat. Try to include a combination of aerobic exercises and strength training, for example, tug of war and sprinting uphill are excellent muscle builders.
Consult your veterinarian
If your pup is still not gaining weight even after you’ve made the necessary dietary and exercise changes, you should consult your veterinarian. They can examine your pup and determine if there is an underlying medical condition as mentioned that is preventing your pup from gaining weight.
Overall, gaining weight safely is paramount for your dog’s health, resulting in a glossy coat, healthy skin and in total, a much healthier pup. By following these tips and ensuring your dog gets all the necessary nutrients and calories, in no time, you can aid in your canine’s goal to reach an ideal weight and enjoy a long and healthy life.
