My underweight puppy won't eat from bowl. How to help her gain weight?

Question

My dog is underweight, but she won't eat out of the dog food bowl unless I feed her by hand first, how do I encourage her to eat? How much should I feed her to help her gain weight? She's active but 20 lbs under. She's 9 months old. She was rescued. Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | 9 months and 2 days old | 15 lbs

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Have Stella examined by your veterinarian to diagnose any underlying medical conditions for her lack of weight gain. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites, bacterial overgrowth or malabsorption/maldigestion conditions. Feed a good quality canned or dry large breed puppy food. Stop hand feeding her. Dogs thrive on routine, so begin a consistent schedule for feeding. Prepare her food and leave it down for 20 minutes before picking it up whether she has eaten or not. Repeat this at the next mealtime. Be firm and be consistent. She will not starve. She will eat when she gets hungry. You can mix in a bit of warm water or a teaspoon of plain baby food to stimulate the appetite.

My underweight puppy won't eat from bowl. How to help her gain weight?

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