Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is too skinny, his ribs show. How can I help him gain weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 21 days old | 43 lbs

Hello! I fear that my dog is too skinny, I feed him 1 1/2cups of dry food twice a day (so 3 cups total for the day) yet his ribs are still slight visible when he stands normal and quite visible when he bends or lays down. My regular vet did not express concern about his weight when I had him in their office last but that was a few months ago and he wasn’t done growing at that time. Do you have any suggestions that will help to get some meat on his bones without making him overweight or unhealthy

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on January 4th, 2019

Finn is a very cute boy! At this point I would recommend to feed a high-quality and easy to digest dog food brand such as Royal Canin, Science Diet or Purina Pro Plan. Since he is not yet one year old, make sure to buy the large breed puppy formula. I would also recommend to increase his food intake to 4 cups a day and monitor him closely that he does not get too much weight gain. Once he is an adult dog, you can change him to an adult large breed formula. Make sure he’s up-to-date on his deworming as well. I think at this point, give him time to gain weight with a high-quality food and an increase food content. Then go from there if needed. I hope this helps and please post again with any further questions.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 8th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is normal to feel the ribs in puppies. You should not be able to SEE each rib or see the hip bones. I recommend fecal testing and proper deworming in puppies. I like Purina, Hill's Science diet, Iams and Royal canin foods. Since Shadow is a lab you should be feeding a large breed puppy food. Use the bag recommendation for feeding and add in 25% until your first Vet visit. Good luck!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored