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My active hunting dog is too thin. How can he gain healthy weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American English Coonhound | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 7 months old

hello..i am trying to get my english coonhound to put some weight on.he is an active hunting dog.he is also 2 years old.i have wormed him.i even switched up his food to a 30/20.now my female has no problemkeeping her weight on while being active.i just dont like seeing him stand there and seeing his ribs.any advice

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 30th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Yukon. It can be difficult to keep weight on some young very active dogs. First, he should see his veterinarian for blood and urine testing to ensure there is no underlying disease that is affecting him. If he is deemed healthy, then you can consider another brand of food. Some dogs will respond better to one brand over another. I would stay within the performance line of foods though with the 30:20 ratio you are using. You can feed more than the bag recommends if necessary and supplement with canned food. Your goal is to be able to easily feel all of his ribs and see the last few for him to be at a healthy weight. He needs a defined waist from the top and side views as well. Lastly, neutering him will slow his metabolism and result in weight gain. I hope this information helps!

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