My Boxer is skinny but has a big stomach. Why is he so sick?

Question

my grandad dog is a pure bred boxer around 4 or 5 years old. I just moved in with him recently but i noticed his dog looked very sick. He told me that the dog had refused to eat for about a day and he became extremely skinny (bones visible). he has been eating regularly now for some time but he doesnt seem to look much better except for the fact that his stomach is getting bigger but not much else. I'm thinking it might be a parasite of some sort, maybe a tapeworm, but Im not sure. Please help! Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 11 months old | 80 lbs

Jenny, DVM · Accepted Answer

He is very under weight. While parasites may be compromising things, it is unlikely the source of his problems. His belly may be getting larger from accumulating fluid. Heart worms are common in the south and cause heart failure and liver congestion in severe cases. The fluid build up may be from an infection or tumor or an disease with his intestines. I am afraid he is to the point where he needs to be taken to a vet for further testing to find out the problem.

My Boxer is skinny but has a big stomach. Why is he so sick?

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