My dog is losing weight and looks muscular. Is his diet protein okay?

Question

Scrappy has been eating Purina Pro Plan Simply Fit, eating 1/2C, twice a day. He started at 22 pounds and kept that on for 4 weeks, today, he has lost 3 pounds at the end of his 5th week. He does not look as if he lost, but he looks more like a dog that has been lifting weights and related to a Boxer. He is a mix poodle/cocker. Is it too much protein, should I continue and give him less, he is a good eater and always hungry. I have a tough time with those "I'm hungry Mom" looks. Thank you.

Ana M, DVM · Accepted Answer

It can be hard for owners to know what a good weight is for a pet. So many pets we see on a daily basis on overeeight so it skews our perception. In determining if a pet is at a healthy weight, I look at three things. There should be a thin covering over the ribs (you don't want to be digging through a fat covering to feel them). There should be a distinct waist when viewed from the top and the abdomen needs to tug up tightly from the side view. You only want a dog to lose 1-2% of its body weight per week . Tbis5 is only about one third of a pound at Scrappy's current weight. As long as Scrappy doesn't have any underlying kidney disease the protein content of this diet is fine. You can offer ice cubes, fresh carrots or green beans for low calorie snacks. Make sure he gets plenty of exercise. It sounds like you are off to a good start. Keep it up!

My dog is losing weight and looks muscular. Is his diet protein okay?

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