My 11-month Golden is skinny. What food helps weight & joint health?

Question

Hello Docs, I have a 11 month old golden retriever, male who is very playful and adjusted to our family ... I have few things to share to get an opinion ... 1. He is very skinny to his age but very active ... he eats boiled chicken as one the main food - Is the food we give correct ? And also how to improve his weight ? 2. We live in an apartment which has very smooth flooring ... he often skids through or strectch while sitting ... I am afraid that this may lead to joint problems . Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 11 months old | 45 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

Shadow is a cutie!!! to answer your questions: 1) Boiled chicken has lots of protein but lacks many other important nutrients. It is not complete or balanced. He needs 90% of his total daily food intake to be a complete and balance dog food. You may have difficulty getting him use to eating a dog food. Start by gradually decreasing the amount of chicken you add and resist all temptation to give him anything else. During this time, avoid treats or anything else that may fill his belly, this will help him take to the food. Ideally you find a food that he likes. Royal Canin and Purina Pro Plan both tend to be foods that most dogs like. Technically he should eat a large breed puppy formula until he is at least a year old. He may pick up weight by just eating a better diet. Also make sure he is up to date on his deworming. Being thin at his age is not unusual as most dogs fill out after 1 year old. 2) I would not be worried that the flooring will lead to arthritis but it can certainly lead to soft tissue pulls. Make sure to lay down plenty of carpets and rugs with the non-skid padding so he has safe spaces to sit, walk and rest. Feeding him a large breed dog food will help to protect his joints as they contain additives to promote joint help. I hope this helps to point you in the right direction. Please feel free to post any further questions!

My 11-month Golden is skinny. What food helps weight & joint health?

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