What to Feed an Underweight Dog

By MelissaKollman

Instructions

Choosing a Food

Step 1:
To feed an underweight dog, first choose a food that is healthy for him. A good food to help a dog gain weight and muscle mass is going to be a food high in both protein and in fat. For severely underweight dogs, a puppy food, or a food formulated by vets to help dogs gain weight, can be used. Choose a food that is high in real meat ingredients, not meat meals or by products. A good food should also have a vast array of vegetables, which provide healthy fats. An important aspect to gaining weight is to get settled on a food that is vet-recommended and very healthy.

Starting Gradually

Step 1:
With a severely underweight dog, it is important to start small and gradual. Offer a dog a serving of dry or canned dog food once every couple of hours. Don't allow him to gorge himself. Have him eat small meals several times a day. This will help his body get used to taking in more fat, and will help him put on weight. Don't allow an underweight dog to free feed right away, as this will complicate his digestion. Feed him on a strict schedule.

Getting on A Good Schedule and Hints

Step 1:
An underweight dog will thrive on a good eating schedule. Feed him at least three times a day. You can also try feeding him slightly smaller meals four or five times a day. Allow him to eat entire servings at each meal. Gradually increase the amount you are feeding him until you have reached the right size meal as per the can or bag of food.

If an underweight dog refuses to eat dry kibble, mixing it with canned food can be a way to change his mind. You might also try tuna fish, which is high in protein and high in fat. It could entice a dog to eat more than he is currently eating.

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