When Toby went through a rough patch—losing weight after an illness—my heart sank every time I ran my hands over his bony frame.
I wanted him to feel strong again, but I also knew rushing weight gain could do more harm than good.
If your dog is underweight, whether from illness, stress, or simply being a picky eater, there are safe, natural ways to help them regain their ideal body condition—without sacrificing health.
Step 1: Rule Out Medical Issues First
Before adding extra calories, talk to your vet. Weight loss or inability to gain weight can be caused by:
- Dental pain
- Digestive issues
- Parasites
- Chronic illness (kidney, liver, thyroid problems)
Once health problems are ruled out or treated, you can start a nutrition-focused plan.
Step 2: Focus on Nutrient-Dense Calories
Calories alone aren’t enough—you want quality calories that feed muscle, skin, and immune health.
That means:
- High-quality protein to rebuild muscle (read more on balancing protein, fat & carbs here)
- Healthy fats to boost energy and coat shine (why they matter here)
- Digestible carbs like sweet potato for steady energy (carbs: friend or filler?)
Step 3: Add Healthy Fats for Calorie Boost
Healthy fats are the easiest way to add calories without overfilling your dog.
I used a mix of:
- Salmon oil
- Coconut oil
- Chicken skin (plain, cooked)
If you’re unsure where to start, my guide on how to add healthy fats naturally walks you through safe portions and best sources.
Also, don’t be confused by the “crude fat” label on store-bought food—it’s not the full story. You can learn the truth here.
Step 4: Feed Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Instead of two large meals, try:
- 3–4 smaller meals per day
- Adding a nutrient-rich snack between meals (like scrambled eggs or sardines)
- Keeping mealtimes consistent to build appetite cues
This prevents overwhelming their digestion while still increasing calorie intake.
Step 5: Monitor Weight Gain Progress
Healthy weight gain is gradual. Aim for:
- 0.5–1 lb per week for small to medium dogs
- 1–2 lbs per week for large breeds
Sudden, rapid weight gain can stress joints and organs.
Can I just give my dog human food to gain weight?
Not quite. While some human foods are safe (like plain cooked meats, eggs, or certain veggies), many are harmful. Stick to dog-safe options, and when in doubt, check a reliable dog nutrition guide.
Final Thought
Helping your dog gain weight isn’t about stuffing their bowl—it’s about feeding for health.
When protein, fat, and carbs are in balance, weight gain feels less like recovery… and more like a transformation.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about adding pounds.
It’s about bringing back their spark.
One bowl at a time.