I own a one year old standard poodle. He was the smallest of the litter. He is on a raw diet now, for about 5-6 months. I have had guidance from a company owner raw diet foods. My concern is his weight. He is presently 22 inches in height and 30lbs. An employee of a pet store, who has fostered standards for the purpose of being 'work dogs', for the disabled, feels that he is too thin. How do I know if he is underweight?
I can feel his ribs, but not prominently, but his hind hip bones do protrude. Is there a way I can give him a diet with more calories? He seems to be sensitive to richer foods, as chicken backs will give him diarrea unless I cut most of the skin and fat off. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely Johanne

Anyone?

If you want to stay with the natural diet you could try bulking it with pasta or mashed potato, instant mash is fine to save the cooking, both being bland enough not to cause a upset tum. (If you have the oven on, pop a sweet potato in, mine love those).

You don't say how often you feed, but little and often would be better then one meal a day.

Hope this helps

Sandra

Your dog need carbohdrates, fats & proteins along with trace elements & vitamins. With a dog of his age do not over do the protein, he needs to grow in his own time. If needed increase whatever carbohdrates you are feeding and that should increase the weight without risking over doing the protein.

It is not unusual for adolescent males to be on the thin side before they muscle up. I don't know how much poodles should weigh but if you are concerned then I would have a word with your vet as they can see your dog (which we can't) and run any tests they consider necessary.

Christine

I too would recommend pasta. Also you can add in some oily fish such as pilchards with it, as it enhances the taste and gives good extra oils.
Katrina