Need Advise... Weight gain in elderly dog...

[ma2babygurl13]

What do I need to do to help my elderly dog gain more weight... seems to be that the "normal" dog food isn't helping no matter the amount he is getting. He is a 9 year old American Bulldog, so getting up there for his breed. I remember somewhere it is either a higher protein or a higher fat will help get some weight on, but I cannot remember which one it is... any suggestions? He isn't incredibly thin, just thinner than I like him to be. Which would be better to look into for a "new" food for him higher protein or higher fat or both? Right now he is at 21% protein and 10%fat... I would like him to gain 5-10lbs min but no more than 15ish. Any help would be appreciated!

 

[Cindiloohoo]

Just pour grease over his food when you cook bacon or burger meat. He will gain and have a nice shiny coat as well. Changing the food might upset his tummy, the grease in my experience does not.


ETA: Oh and a sure way to fatten up a dog is treats. Yhey are almost always higher in fat.

 

[Dar]

i would hesitate on encouraging a senior dog and a large dog at that to gain weight... I would be worried about their hips. consult a vet to see if there is a parasite issue, or an absorption issue they may need to bo switched to a easy digestible food

 

[Skyesrocket]

I would have him checked for worms too. Also check his teeth. It might be time for a senior feed for him.

 

[thebritt]

Too much grease/fat can lead to pancreatitis - VERY painful w/expensive vet visits (been there, done that - dog moaned when she breathed, I felt awful - too much greasy treats on her food

)
I'd take it to the vet and be sure it's just due to old age, in which case, so what? Many people/animals lose weight towards old age...not necessarily a bad thing. Good luck - hope things are ok.