If your furry friend is struggling to gain weight, you're not alone. Many dogs, especially seniors or those with medical conditions, require a little extra help to reach a healthy weight.
Using weight gain dog treats can be an effective solution, as they provide a concentrated source of calories and nutrients. According to our article, these treats can contain up to 25% more calories than regular dog treats.
Consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet, as they can recommend the best weight gain dog treats for your pet's specific needs.
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Weight Gain Treat Options
If you're looking to help your dog gain weight, you'll want to focus on high-calorie dog treats. These treats can provide the energy boost your pup needs to put on pounds.
High-calorie dog treats like peanut butter biscuits and sweet potato chews can be a great option. They're often high in calories and can be easily incorporated into your dog's diet.
Some high-calorie dog treats are better suited for certain types of dogs, such as puppies or senior dogs. For example, high-calorie dog treats like chicken jerky can be a great option for puppies.
To ensure your dog is getting enough calories, consider pairing high-calorie dog treats with other weight gain foods. This can include adding healthy oils like coconut oil to their meals.
Incorporating high-calorie dog treats into your dog's diet can be as simple as adding them to their meals or using them as a reward during training.
Understanding Weight Gain in Dogs
If your dog is underweight, it's essential to address the issue with your veterinarian first. A trip to the vet is the best way to start the weight-gain efforts.
Your veterinarian will help you determine the cause of your dog's weight loss and create a plan to get them back on track. This might involve changing their diet or addressing any underlying health issues.
You can start by adding a home-cooked meal to some of your dog's meals, but be sure to use a recipe that's nutritionally balanced. Companies like Balance It can help you design a balanced diet based on what you want to feed.
Some dogs benefit from adding toppers that are high in calories, such as duck egg omelets. However, remember to maintain a balanced diet.
Here are some high-calorie toppers you can try:
- Duck egg omelets
- Canned food mixed with kibble
- Probiotics made for dogs
- Digestive enzyme additives
- Milk and dairy products (added to a nutritionally balanced meal)
- String cheese or cooked meat (used as training treats)
When using these toppers, be sure to keep them in moderation. Many dog treats are higher in calories, but they shouldn't make up more than 10 to 15% of your dog's daily food intake.
Choosing the Right Food
Feeding your dog a higher calorie dog food, usually labeled for performance dogs, can help them gain weight.
To ensure you're providing the right nutrients, look for ingredients like healthy proteins and fats, such as chicken, turkey, and peanut butter. Peanut butter is not only a healthy protein but also contains healthy fat.
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When searching for food with healthy fats, look for ingredients rich in omega fatty acids, like eggs, hemp seeds, and quinoa. Omega fatty acids are great for a dog's heart and digestive health.
If you're adding human food to your dog's meals, consider dairy, rice, eggs, or lean meat. Just be sure to introduce these new foods gradually to prevent digestive upset.
To make mealtime more engaging, use cooked meat, string cheese, or high-calorie dog treats for training. These treats can be a tasty and convenient way to add extra calories to your dog's diet.
Here are some higher calorie dog food options to consider:
- Feeding a higher calorie dog food
- Including wet food in meals
- Adding a high-calorie topper
- Choosing a weight-gain supplement made for dogs
Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet.
Weight gain dog treats often require special attention to the dog's overall health and well-being. Formerly Abandoned or Cruelly Treated
Dogs that have been formerly abandoned or cruelly treated may require special attention when introducing weight gain dog treats. They may have underlying health issues or trust issues that need to be addressed before starting a weight gain program.
Their nutritional needs may be different, requiring a balanced diet that takes into account their specific health requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods cause weight gain in dogs?
For healthy weight gain in dogs, consider adding sweet potatoes and pumpkin to their diet, which provide essential fat and fiber for digestion and weight gain. These nutrient-rich foods can help your dog put on weight in a balanced and sustainable way.
Do treats put weight on dogs?
Yes, overindulging in treats can lead to weight gain and health issues in dogs. Excessive treat consumption can have negative effects on your furry friend's overall health and well-being.
How to feed an underweight dog?
Feed your underweight dog high-quality, meat-based fats and consider dividing their daily ration into four smaller meals to support healthy weight gain. This can help meet their increased calorie needs, especially during rapid growth periods.
Sources
- Dog Treats Do's and Don'ts (redbarn.com)
- High Calorie Dog Treats: 15 Awesome Hiking Snacks for ... (homesalive.ca)
- Homemade Food for Dogs to Gain Weight the Healthy Way (twitter.com)
- How To Put Weight on a Dog (whole-dog-journal.com)
- How to Get a Dog to Gain Weight in 6 Safe and Easy Steps (holistapet.com)
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