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Why are my large, growing dogs thin and always hungry for more food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Mastiff | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 11 months old

Hi I have two dogs ones a mastiff x ridge back and the other is a mastiff x Grate Dane that are just over a year old I've had these dogs before my last was 14 years old when he past. I'm got these two on 3 kg of food a day and they don't look like that are putting weight on and there always looking for more food. My last dog never got that much and he was always 38 kg and the vet always said he looked good and healthy. I've always been one who doesn't like seeing to much ribs

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 23rd, 2019

I can’t tell from the photos of the pups are too thin. In general you should be able to see the last rib when the dog is turning his body. If you are seeing more than that, he may be too thin. You should make sure parasites are not a problem as they will cause pets to be thin. It could also be related to diet. Some food have better quality proteins that are easier to digest. I recommend a brand called Royal Canin. Your pup’s are also still growing so they do tend to stay lanky longer. Most giant breed dogs are not physically mature until 18 months old. A visit to your veterinarian can accurately access the dog’s body condition (as well as check the stool for parasites). I recommend to have them examined so that you can get the most accurate information. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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