Lets talk about weight!
As a proud dog dad to two Golden retrievers and four Cocker spaniels, I’m often asked about canine nutrition. Many of the questions I’m asked are about how to help a dog lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. But what about those dogs who need to gain weight?
Whether you have a high-energy working dog like mine, or perhaps your dog is naturally lean, there’s plenty we can do with the right diet!
Why Might a Dog Be Underweight?
Before we jump into solutions, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes of weight loss or an inability to gain weight. Firstly, every dog is different, just like we are. One dog’s metabolism can be entirely different to another’s. That’s why some dogs gain or lose weight much faster than others do. If you’re unsure whether your dog is at a healthy weight, take a look at my diagram above which demonstrates the signs you should look for when body scoring your dog. If your dog is overweight, make sure to check out my blog “How to manage your dog’s weight”.
In addition, health conditions such as parasites, digestive issues, or even stress can lead to a dog being underweight. If your dog suddenly starts to lose weight without an apparent cause, a trip to the vet is the first step to rule out any serious health issues. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to look at their diet.
How to put weight on a dog
The goal for healthy weight gain is to increase your dog’s calorie intake with nutrient-dense, high-quality foods. This doesn’t mean feeding your dog leftovers or overly fatty treats, which can upset their digestion. Instead, focus on high-calorie dog food to add weight, and healthy fats to fuel their energy levels.
High-fat dog food
The best dog food for dogs to gain weight is one with a high kilo-calorie density. At James & Ella, we’re passionate about creating food and treats suitable for all dogs, from puppies to adult dogs, active working breeds and couch potatoes! Our Freeze-Dried Raw food range is an excellent option if you’re looking for good dog food for weight gain.
Here’s why:
Calorie-dense: Freeze-Dried Raw food is concentrated, meaning your dog gets more energy and nutrients in every bite compared to traditional kibble. This makes it one of the best dog foods to gain weight and muscle. To learn more about how our Freeze-Dried Raw food is made, check out my blog: “What is Freeze-Dried Dog Food?”
High in healthy fats: Dogs that need to gain weight require a diet with a higher fat content. Healthy fats not only help with weight gain but also improve coat condition and energy levels – something I’ve noticed with my working dogs.
Versatility: You can feed it as a complete meal or use it as a topper or mixer with another complete dog food, such as our Kibble + Raw or Cold-Pressed food. This is particularly helpful if your dog is a picky eater or needs extra calories in their meals.
Tips for Feeding Your Dog to Gain Weight
Small, frequent meals: Instead of one or two large meals, try feeding your dog smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This can help to naturally slow their metabolism and ensure they’re getting a steady flow of food through their digestive system.
Incorporate omega-rich foods: Consider adding foods like raw eggs and fish such as sprats or sardines, as part of your dog’s diet. These are great food toppers as they’re rich in essential omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, as well as protein. Cooked sweet potatoes (in moderation) are also a great source of fibre for dogs who are fed a high-protein diet.
Monitor progress: Weigh your dog weekly and track their body score. Healthy weight gain should be gradual, and monitoring your dog ensures you’re on the right track.
A Personal Note on weight gain for Dogs
With six active, working dogs at home, I’ve seen firsthand how a balanced diet impacts their energy, performance, and overall health. Feeding a Freeze-Dried Raw food diet has been a game-changer for my dogs, especially during periods when they needed a little extra help to maintain their weight, such as the colder months!
If you’re looking for the best dog food to put on weight or simply want to ensure your dog’s diet meets their unique needs, James & Ella’s Freeze-Dried Raw food is a great option to try. It’s grain-free, packed with essential nutrients and designed to provide premium nutrition for your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Remember, every dog is different, so finding the right approach may take some experimentation. Whether you’re looking for food to help a dog gain weight or maintain their energy levels, the key is providing high-quality dog food to nourish them from the inside out!
Until next time,
James x
