How fast can dogs lose weight

Why Your Dogs Losing Weight and What to Do

Its normal for a dogs weight to vary a little bit over time. If you change their diet to one that isnt to their liking, theyll probably lose a few pounds. Or maybe they are staying inside more during the winter; in this case, theyll probably gain a little.

But what about a dog that keeps losing weight and you dont know why? Unexplained weight loss can be the first sign that a health problem is brewing.

Why Is My Dog Losing Weight?

Weight loss in dogs has many causes. Problems with a dogs diet, environment, and health could all be to blame. Here are a few of the most common causes of unexplained weight loss:

• A problem with their food: Dogs may eat less when there is something they dont like about their food. A change in diet may be to blame, or perhaps a large bag of food has started to go bad before your dog has finished it. Feeding too little or giving your dog low-quality dog food can also lead to weight loss.

• Stress:A dog thats anxious or stressed may find it hard to relax and eat because they feel like they always need to be on alert.

• Exercise: Dogs that start exercising more but dont take in more calories will lose weight.

• The environment: Dogs require extra energy to stay warm when they spend lots of time in the cold. Conversely, hot temperatures can reduce a dogs appetite.

• Reproduction:Pregnancy and lactation (nursing puppies) put extra nutritional demands on dogs. If they dont take in more calories, they will lose weight.

• Dental disease and other oral problems: Any problem that makes chewing and swallowing painful or difficult will discourage a dog from eating.

• Intestinal worms and other parasites: Parasites get their nutrition from their hosts, which can lead to weight loss in dogs.

• Cancer: Cancer cells use energy to grow and divide, and this means that the energy is not available to the dog, so they often lose weight. Cancer can also directly affect a dogs digestive system and appetite.

• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders: Problems that affect the functioning of the digestive tract can reduce a dogs appetite or their ability to digest and absorb nutrients. Inflammatory bowel disease, lymphoma, adverse food reactions, or partial intestinal blockages could be to blame.

• Nasal problems: Any condition that affects a dogs ability to smell their food can lead to a reduced appetite.

• Diabetes mellitus: The changes in glucose metabolism seen with diabetes mellitus frequently lead to weight loss in dogs, even when they have a good appetite.

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI): When dogs have EPI, they dont produce enough of the digestive enzymes needed to break down food and absorb nutrients.

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can directly affect the GI tract and lead to weight loss. Fighting an infection anywhere in the body requires extra energy, and if dogs dont eat more, they will lose weight.

• Kidney and liver disease: When the kidneys or liver dont function properly, waste products of metabolism build up in the bloodstream, which can make a dog nauseated and not feel like eating. Dogs with kidney disease may also lose protein in their urine, which can lead to weight loss.

• Heart disease: Weight loss is common as heart disease progresses. The exact causes of this are unknown, but the condition goes by the name cardiac cachexia.

• Addisons disease:Dogs with Addisons disease (hypoadrenocorticism) dont produce enough of certain types of adrenal hormones, which can lead to poor appetite and weight loss.

• Hyperthyroidism: Although hyperthyroidism is rare in dogs, it can increase their metabolic rate and lead to weight loss.

• Neurologic conditions: Any disease that adversely affects a dogs ability to eat and swallow can result in weight loss.

Is My Dog Too Skinny?

Regularly checking your dogs weight by using an accurate digital scale is the best way to monitor for weight loss or gain. However, evaluating a dogs body condition score can also help you determine if your dog is too skinny. In general, a dog might be too skinny if:

• You can easily see their ribs or other bony points.

• When looking down from the top, they have a very pronounced waist.

• When looking from the side, they have an exaggerated abdominal tuck.

When to See Your Vet About Your Dogs Weight Loss

A little bit of weight loss isnt always an emergency. As long as your dog doesnt have any other signs of illness, you could try to change their diet or environment to see if it solves the problem. But there are times when you should get your dog to a veterinarian ASAP:

1. Puppies shouldnt lose weight! As they grow, puppies should be gaining weight, so call your veterinarian immediately if your puppy is losing weight or getting too skinny.

2. Weight loss in a dog thats older or has an underlying health problem is always concerning. The risk of serious diseases that cause weight loss increases as dogs get older.

3. Weight loss combined with symptoms of illness is never normal. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog has difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, weakness, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, or any other worrisome symptoms. If your dogs symptoms are severe, call a vet immediately to determine if you should head to the clinic right away.

4. Rapid or pronounced weight loss should always get your attention. Any health problem can lead to serious weight loss. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog has lost more than 10% of their normal body weight or is losing 2% or more of their body weight per week. Heres what that can look like for dogs of different sizes:

Serious Weight Loss in Dogs

How Do Vets Treat Unexplained Weight Loss in Dogs?

A veterinarian will start by asking you a lot of questions about your dogs diet, appetite, environment, behavior, medical history, and any current medications (including parasite preventives) or supplements that you are giving. They will also determine how many calories your dog is taking in each day and if this amount should be meeting their energy needs.

Next, they will perform a complete physical examination and use the information they uncover to recommend treatment or further diagnostic testing. A basic laboratory workup includes a fecal examination, bloodwork, and a urinalysis. Additional testing can involve x-rays, ultrasound examinations, specialized lab tests for specific health problems, endoscopy, exploratory surgery, and tissue biopsies.

Whenever possible, veterinarians will recommend treatment for a dogs weight loss that aims to cure or at least improve its underlying cause. For example, they will prescribe a dewormer if a dog has intestinal parasites, dental care for damaged teeth, or antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Oftentimes, a change in diet can also help dogs regain the weight theyve lost. Options include:

• High-calorie, nutrient-dense dog foods for generalized weight gain

• Highly digestible diets when GI function is impaired

• Dog foods with added fiber may be appropriate for some types of GI problems or for dogs with diabetes

• Hypoallergenic dog foods made from novel ingredients, hydrolyzed proteins, or individual amino acids for food allergies and intolerances

• Disease-specific diets like those designed to help manage kidney or liver disease

The right food and other treatments will depend on the specifics of your dogs case. Dont wait too long to get your dog the care they need. Its easier to manage a dogs weight loss when it hasnt had a chance to progress too far.

Featured Image: iStock/Capuski

Why Is My Dog Losing Weight? 10 Common Reasons

Understanding the reasons behind your dog's weight changes is essential for their health and well-being. A slight fluctuation in weight can be typical, but if your dog loses 10% of their normal body weight, it's a cause for concern and considered clinically significant.

This article delves into the various potential causes of such weight loss. From underlying medical conditions to stress or inadequate calorie intake, we'll explore each reason in depth.

Let's dive in to better understand what might be some possible reasons for your dog losing weight.

1. Diet

Food issues such as changes in diet, food aversion, or a change in water taste can lead to weight loss. Poor diet is one of the foremost causes of weight loss in dogs. This can happen if your dog isn't getting enough calories to maintain their body weight or if they don't like the food and simply refuse to eat.

Keeping an eye on their eating and making sure they get the right food can help.

Related reading: Dog Food Ingredients to Look For & Ones to Avoid

2. Stress

If your dog suddenly starts losing weight, they may be eating less because of stress. This can be triggered by sudden changes in the environment or the presence of new pets, for example, and may result indog appetite changes.

To address this, it's beneficial to consult a vet who can craft a personalized treatment plan. Through this approach, pet owners can learn effective techniques to soothe their dogs during anxiety episodes.

3. Dental Disease

Dental issues, particularly in senior dogs, can significantly contribute to weight loss. When a dog suffers from dental disease, the severe mouth pain they experience while chewing can discourage them from eating, leading to weight loss.

Key signs of advanced dental disease include bleeding gums, bad breath, and excessive drooling. If you notice your dog preferring wet food over dry, it might be due to the gentleness of soft food on their tender teeth.

To prevent such issues and ensure your dog's overall health, regular dental check-ups, and proper oral care are paramount.

4. Gastrointestinal Issues

Gastrointestinal problems like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can interfere with a dog's digestive system and result in weight loss. These issues might make your dog feel too sick to eat normally or interfere with your dog's ability to absorb nutrients from their food.

Maintaining a consistent diet and avoiding sudden changes can help keep their digestive system in check.

5. Parasites

Intestinal parasites may also cause your dog's weight loss. Common intestinal parasites in dogs include tapeworms, giardia, hookworms, and roundworms. These creatures survive by obtaining nutrients from their host, leaving fewer calories for your dog to absorb from their food.

If you notice sudden weight loss, have a vet perform fecal tests to check for parasites and ensure your dog's well-being.

6. Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders resulting from hormonal imbalances, such as diabetes mellitus, Addison's Disease, and Cushing's disease, can also cause dogs to lose weight even if they continue eating normally.

Regular health screenings can aid in the early detection and management of these disorders.

7. Heart Disease

Any disorder of the heart is classified as heart disease, and it occurs in about 60% of seniors and 10% of all dogs. The most common symptom of heart disease in dogs is exercise intolerance, where your dog seems to pant or get out of breath during a gentle stroll. Decreased appetite and weight loss are also symptoms of heart disease.

Regular check-ups, especially for senior dogs, can help in early detection.

8. Kidney Disease

Weight loss may occur in dogs with kidney disease. This happens when the kidneys stop functioning adequately and is associated with aging in dogs. Common signs of kidney disease include excessive drinking and urination.

Your veterinarian may prescribe a specialized diet in cases of kidney failure.

9. Liver Disease

Liver disease is fairly common in dogs and can result in weight loss, coma, seizures, and death if left untreated. As a pet parent, you must watch your dog for poor appetite and arrange diagnostic testing if you suspect liver issues.

Ensuring your dog has a balanced diet and avoiding exposure to harmful substances can help in maintaining liver health.

10. Cancer

Neoplasms, or cancers, are common in older dogs. Cancer symptoms in dogs include decreased appetite, weight loss, respiratory changes, and sometimes a head tilt. Cancer cells grow rapidly, and the increased metabolic demand often results in weight loss.

If you're concerned about your senior dog's well-being, booking a quality-of-life consultation can provide clarity and guidance.

When to Seek Vet Care

It's natural for adult dogs to experience minor weight fluctuations over time. However, if you notice a significant drop in your dog's weight, it's a cause for concern. Especially if your dog's weight loss is paired with:

These symptoms might indicate an underlying medical condition, and it's crucial to see a veterinarian.

Treatments for Dog Weight Loss

If your dog is experiencing weight loss, the first step is often a comprehensive pet wellness check-up. Your veterinarian will perform this physical examination and may recommend some tests to determine the underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatments.

For puppies, any weight loss is a warning sign. If you observe your young pup shedding pounds, it's crucial to act promptly. A timely puppy check-up can be instrumental in safeguarding their health.

Conversely, while it's not unusual for senior dogs to lose a bit of weight as they age, a significant drop is concerning. Whether it's a young pup or an aging companion, prioritizing your pet's health by seeking veterinary advice is crucial.

How to Prevent Rapid Weight Loss in Dogs

To prevent rapid weight loss in dogs, it's essential to provide an appropriate diet and ensure they go through regular veterinary check-ups.

Ensuring your dog receives the right food tailored to their specific needs, age, and breed can make a significant difference in their overall health. Regular veterinary visits allow for consistent monitoring of your dog's health, facilitating early detection of any potential issues.

If you ever observe a sudden, unexplained weight loss in your dog, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian without delay.

Conclusion

Sudden weight loss in dogs can stem from a myriad of reasons, from dental issues and stress to more severe medical conditions like diabetes mellitus, and heart, kidney, or liver diseases. If you notice your dog shedding pounds unexpectedly, it's not just about addressing the calorie deficit; it's about understanding the root cause.

Don't wait for the situation to escalate. Book a wellness exam with a veterinarian to ensure your pet's health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of my dog being underweight?

Typical signs that indicate you have an underweight dog include bone protrusion. If your dog's ribs are clearly visible and when you touch them, it feels like there is no layer of fat between them and the skin, then your dog is underweight.

Why is my dog losing weight but still eating?

If your dog is eating well but losing weight, it usually means they're not absorbing the nutrients and calories from their food. This could be because of internal illness or parasites. It's also possible that their diet isn't providing as many calories as their metabolism needs. You can start by increasing their food portion and consult your veterinarian for a pet health check.

What happens if a dog loses weight too fast?

Rapid weight loss in dogs can cause undesirable behaviors like digging into the trash. Additionally, it results in nutritional deficiencies, causing your dog to become weak and have stunted growth.