My dog's ribs are showing. Is he too thin after his illness?

Question

His ribs seem to stick out more and seem more rounded. The ends like a ball and hardish feeling. But on both sides evenly so I think not a tumor. Some one on here said maybe he is too skinny. Idk he was sick a while with canine flu (he wasn’t vaccinated and our other puppy was since it was a time of year for it and we got him last year after his shots so in April he will have his flu vac) anyways does he look to be in good condition? He doesn’t eat much but has gotten a bigger appetite. Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | neutered | 3 years and 7 months old | 61 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! A long illness that takes time for a dog to recover can cause weight loss. From your pictures I do think Timber is too thin. I am glad his appetite is picking back up. If he had appetite and weight issues BEFORE the flu then I would start a work up with your Vet. Things to consider are: fecal testing for parasites, blood work, malabsorption/maldigestion profile (measures B12, folate, TLI, PLI), test for Addison's disease (low cortisol), possibly X-rays of his belly but I would go right for the ultrasound to check for intestinal thickening (IBD vs lymphoma). If all this started after the flu then start bulking up his diet and watch his weight for healthy gain. I hope this helps. I attached a body condition chart to view. I wish you and Timber the best! https://oregonvma.org/files/Purina-Dog-Condition-Chart.pdf

My dog's ribs are showing. Is he too thin after his illness?

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