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My large dog isn't losing weight on her diet. Is she losing muscle?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 years old

Is it true that if a dog is on a Diet, and not fed enough food, instead of losing fat, it loses Muscle instead? Is that why Tasha's Thighs seem more hollow, and not as strong? She has Hip Dysplasia, and seldom gets any exercise. According to the Dog Chow company, Nutro -Lite, she is to get 1100 calories/ day. That is what I am feeding her. Not losing weight! Am I feeding too little for a 97 lb. dog? Gets 1- 1/2 cups in a.m. and pm. Plus two Carrots for treats. No biscuits.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 10th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Tasha. I suspect that her thighs are thin secondary to the hip dysplasia. She likely has developed arthritis due to the malformation of her hips. This causes a dog to bear more weight on their front limbs and they subsequently lose muscle mass in the hind limbs. As far as weight loss, her resting energy requirement is around 1400 calories per day based on her weight. So feeding 1100 calories per day should be sufficient for weight loss. If you are feeding 3 cups per day, that equals about 367/cup. This is fairly high for a weight loss food. I recommend prescription weight loss diets as they are much lower in calories per cup, high in protein to support lean muscle mass and high in fiber to keep the dog full longer. I hope this information helps and I am available for a consultation if you have additional questions.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is some truth to that. When a dog starves, he can undergo muscle catabolism and lose muscle. However, they have to be starving for that so I am sure that is not your case. Her caloric intake should be closer to 1,600 calories. That may be why she has been losing some weight. This is easy to correct so do not worry about it, I am sure you take great care of her. Good luck and have a great day!

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