In the course of a dog’s life, it is not uncommon for an old dog to become thinner and thinner. This can be the case at a very old age, when the dog’s body simply no longer functions as it used to. But why is it like that?
I wrote this article to show you what could be causing your old dog to become thinner and thinner.
In addition, I’ll give you tips on how to make your old dog’s food tasty again and what the best senior food is for your darling.
Causes: Why is my old dog getting thinner?
If a dog has already reached a proud age, it is not uncommon for it to lose weight. Loss of appetite can be triggered by many factors.
These are the 4 most common reasons why your old dog is getting thinner despite eating:
1. Gastrointestinal diseases
Since with older dogs their own immune system no longer works at full speed, they are more susceptible to gastrointestinal diseases.
Older dogs often have multiple diseases. A gastrointestinal disease can be caused by a infection caused by viruses or bacteria. If your senior has diarrhea or vomiting for more than 2 days, you should vet visit contemplate.
One of the most common gastrointestinal diseases is pancreatitis, the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract pancreas.
2. Cancer
Unfortunately, cancer is also a very big and sad topic for our dogs. The most common signs of a tumor disease are fast lose weight and Vomit.
If you suspect that your dog has a tumor, please consult your veterinarian immediately. The earlier a tumor is discovered, the greater the opportunity to slow its growth or remove it.
3. Aging
Dogs see, smell and hear less and less as they get older. Sometimes they can no longer find their food and are dependent on our help with feeding.
Some dogs also become fussy because they no longer like the flavors of the food on offer. A bit of variety often helps here.
Interesting to know:
A large dog is from approx. 8 years as a senior. Smaller dogs off about 10 years.
4. Refuses food
If the dog the food refusedshould not wait until the dog eats.
Old dogs often have dental problems and do not eat properly because chewing causes them pain. In an acute situation, you can offer the dog something soft or very watery to lick up. This avoids chewing and the decrepit dog still gets its vitamins and nutrients.
If you are concerned that your dog is suffering from a toothache, please take him to your veterinarian.
Another sign of aging: old dog loses hair
Losing your dog’s hair is nothing to worry about and is a natural part of aging.
As the dog gets older, it gets worse regenerative ability the hair cells and the shedding may be a result of this.
However, if your dog also gets a dull, dull or shaggy coat, this is an indication of one vitamin deficiency or even parasites.
When should I see the vet if my senior dog is getting thin?
When an old dog starts to thin, it is a sign that something is wrong and the dog should be taken to the vet.
A simple blood count can often determine what is causing your dog to become thinner and thinner.
Cancer and various typical diseases of old age can be quickly identified via parameters in the blood count and can usually be treated successfully accordingly.
How can my old dog regain weight?
If your dog is a fussy eater, you can try to encourage him to eat by pouring cattle bullion to make tasty. Also something cottage cheese Mixed into the feed often works wonders.
In addition to oatmeal and potatoes, there are no other options that you can use for another food in addition to the Senior Calorie kick can take care of:
Beef Fat Powder also has a lot of calories and is very easy to use. The desired dose is mixed into the feed and can be fed in the morning and evening.
If you have a butcher nearby, I recommend the gift of fresh, green tripe. Although this stinks a lot, you will make your dog very happy with it. Tripe not only tastes good to the dog, it also contains a lot of fat. You can freeze fresh tripe without hesitation.
Attention: Feeding of pure fat
If your dog eats too much fat, this can lead to diarrhea.
lard is available relatively cheaply in almost every discounter. lard as well as goose fat is very popular with most dogs and consists of pure fat.
butter is the simplest and tastiest way to give your dog a few extra calories. Butter is present in every household. Caution: too much butter can lead to diarrhea. Start with a small portion, you can slowly increase it.
Salty butter should not be fed to the dog.
Old dog not eating properly: My tip
If your dog is fussy and won’t eat properly, try this simple tip:
Pour the food over warm water. The heat in the water also releases the aromatic substances and dogs that smell a little bad are often magically attracted to the new scent.
What is the best dog food for old dogs?
For an old dog is actually a quality senior food such as the Bosch Soft + Senior or the Rinti – Maximum – Senior.
Although good senior food is tailored to the needs of older dogs, feeding your own dog must be individually adjusted.
A good senior food usually contains less fat, less calories and more fiber than a «regular» dog food. This prevents the old dog, which moves less, from gaining weight.
If you only feed your thin dog senior food, it will not gain weight thanks to the reduced proportion of carbohydrates, i.e. fiber.
In order for your dog to gain weight, you can easily stretch out his meals. Oatmeal or boiled potatoes are best for this.
Oat flakes and boiled potatoes are easy for the dog to digest, offer healthy roughage and add a few kilos to the ribs in a very short time.
Oatmeal should be soaked before feeding. The potatoes may only be fed cooked and peeled. Both can be safely fed over a longer period of time. Preferably alternately.
Good to know:
Old dogs should definitely be protected from themselves “Senior Bacon” to feed Since the metabolism with an old dog no longer worked at full speed as with a youngster, much less energy is used and required.
However, if your senior dog can handle a few pounds, a balanced, high-fiber diet and plenty of exercise will do to maintain muscle.
You can add your dog oatmeal or potatoes feed if you want him to gain weight.
How often should an old dog be fed?
Old dogs should 2 times a day be fed, preferably in the morning and evening. As a result, they do not eat such large portions at once and it is easier for them to digest.
Older dogs are usually a bit sluggish. And a full stomach can limit your well-being even more.
Many old dogs are dependent on permanent medication due to various illnesses and ailments. Thus, the 2x feeding makes the administration of the medication a lot easier.
Conclusion
There can be several reasons why your old dog is getting thinner and thinner. Old age or illness? Once you have the answer to this question, you can act accordingly.
Do you also have a fussy old dog? What’s your secret tip to make him eat better? Please leave us a comment!