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Why is my chihuahua thin and ribs showing despite eating enough?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 6 months old

My chihuahua eat his recommended amount of food per day but he still doesn’t seem to be gaining any weight. I can see the outline of his ribs sort of; should that be cause for concern?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on December 18th, 2017

Brandon could be thin due to parasites, liver disease or a naturally high metabolism. I would recommend to make sure his blood levels are normal and his intestines clear of worms. Being able to see the last rib is actually normal, if you can see more than that, Brandon is too thin. If all signs point to a high metabolism, neutering him can help as well as feeding a high calorie, small breed formula. Pet food labels will contain the calorie amounts. It is listed as a Kcal. Please post again if you have any further questions!

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