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How to help a giant puppy gain weight, fix smelly beard & skin issues?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 7 months old | 115 lbs

I wanted to know if Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food is good for pups? I have a dog and he was going through weird things with food and poop and lack of appetite. But his vet said he was healthy but needed to gain weight. What’s the best method for a 6 month old puppy to gain weight but not grow too fast? Also my dogs beard is smelly because sometimes it gets wet and we dry it but it smells like mildew! Also he has hot spots and chewing paws and it can be flaky on the spots but no red skin.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 28th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I have had excellent luck with Royal Canin so I can definitely support giving that a try. In general for giant breed dogs, feed according to the bag. Being 7 months, Bear is probably past the biggest of the growth spurts but we probably still don’t want to free feed. However, it the giant breed formulas, it is safer to feed larger quantities while still keeping bone growth at a proper rate. As for the beard, I have a schnauzer so I can relate a little. My best advice is just to wash the beard with a puppy shampoo once a week. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Finally, for the skin. Adding about 2000 mg per day of Fish oil can sometimes help with the skin however, I recommend talking to your vet. If Bear is already this itchy, food or environmental allergies could be to blame. Bet wishes to you and Bear!

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