Underweight

Dog food for underweight dogs: more energy and a quicker recovery

Is your dog underweight? You can tell by the lack of fat and muscle when you stroke them, or if a dog’s ribs are visible but they still pull enthusiastically on the lead. Being underweight isn’t just something you see in sick or older dogs. Even young, active dogs can struggle to maintain a healthy weight. The right dog food can make all the difference between the dog just muddling through and showing a visible improvement.

Dog food for an underweight dog: what does your dog really need?

A underweight dog needs more than just a larger portion. It’s all about getting the right balance of protein, fats and easily digestible carbohydrates. Food with a high proportion of filler may fill the bowl, but it won’t make your dog any plumper. At Puro, we look for food that provides energy without putting a strain on the digestive system. Think of chicken, rice and salmon oil. These are all ingredients that are quickly absorbed and can be used straight away for muscle building and recovery.

Some dogs do eat, but don’t absorb the nutrients properly. In that case, a kibble that focuses on digestion can help. Less filler, better results. With an underweight dog, you’ll often see a difference after just a few weeks. Think of a firmer back, fuller flanks or more strength in the legs. It’s not about putting on fat, but about healthy growth.

How does dog food designed to help dogs put on weight actually work in practice?

Not every dog reacts in the same way to high-energy food. A young greyhound that runs a lot has different needs to an older sheepdog that is losing weight due to illness. That’s why we always look at the bigger picture: age, weight, activity level and any sensitivities. Sometimes a switch to a different formula is necessary, for example if your dog reacts badly to grains or chicken. In that case, you can opt for a variety with lamb or fish as the main ingredient.

Portion size is just as important as the composition. Feeding too much at once can lead to diarrhoea. If you feed too little, however, recovery will be delayed. If you’re unsure about the portion size, please consult our portion control for dogs and cats. Here you’ll find some useful tips on how to strike the right balance.

Underweight dogs: when should you take action?

There can be various reasons why a dog loses weight. Parasites, dental problems or an overactive metabolism can all play a part. Sometimes you see it happening gradually: the coat becomes duller, the muscles waste away, but the dog’s enthusiasm remains. In other cases, it happens quickly, for example following an operation or due to stress. Are you unsure whether the underweight condition is caused by diet? If so, it’s wise to discuss possible causes with your vet.

Food designed to aid recovery not only provides more energy, but also supports the immune system. This gives your dog the strength to carry on under its own steam. Find out more about the causes of being underweight? Here you can find out what to do if your dog is underweight, and when you should switch to a different type of food.

Specific support for those who are underweight 

At Puro, we see lots of dogs that walk considerable distances every day. Active dogs have a different energy balance to dogs that spend most of their time indoors. We’ve noticed that young dogs and working dogs in the city, in particular, are more likely to become underweight. The combination of plenty of exercise and stimulation calls for food that is immediately available to the body. That is why we deliberately choose ingredients that are easy on the stomach but provide long-lasting energy.An energy-rich diet can also be beneficial for dogs that are temporarily eating less due to stress or a change in their home environment. The right nutrition helps them recover more quickly and regain their previous weight. 

Get immediate advice on dog food for underweight dogs

Want to find out which is the best dog food for your dog within a day? Send a brief description via contact form, you’ll receive personalised feeding advice with no obligation. You’ll find out straight away which food is best suited to your dog’s weight, age and energy levels. You can also contact us with any questions about other dietary issues. Would you prefer to call or email? You’re always welcome to do so – you’ll receive a prompt reply from someone who works with dogs every day.