My overweight dog acts hungry on diet. Should I feed more?

The general rule is to feed 1 cup of dry food per 30lbs body weight. Using this formula, Toki should get 1/4 cup of food twice daily. Alternatively, you could feed one Cesar's portion twice daily and discontinue the dry food. Allowing him to graze in the evening may lead to overeating and weight gain. You can adjust the amount of food based on his body weight and his BCS (body condition score). Your veterinarian can show you how to assess a BCS. Ideally, Toki should have an hourglass figure when looked at from above. From the side, he should have a pronounced abdominal tuck. He should not be rectangular. You should be able to easily feel his ribs under a thin layer of fat as well.

Hi there. Yes, this is fine - since they are overweight, we know that they have been getting more calories than they need for quite some time. If they're not eating all of their food at one time, this means they aren't hungry for the rest, likely because it's more than they need. As long as food is available and you are offering an appropriate amount for their ideal body weight, they won't starve themselves.

Do you think her body weight is appropriate? If she is underweight, she can eat more. If she is normal, you may consider putting her food in treat or puzzle toys so that it takes her longer to eat. She may also be looking for attention. Help her get in more play time or do obedience training to give her mind something to do. If she still seems really hungry, you can try feeding a weight loss food at higher amounts - they usually have more fiber so that it fills the dog up without adding extra calories.

You can keep him on his regular diet, just feed less of it and increase his activity. The general guideline is 1 cup of dry food per 30lbs of body weight. You can divide it into 2 or 3 meals. Limit treats and do not offer any table food. If he continues to gain, consider an exam with your veterinarian. Blood work may diagnose endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism which can cause weight gain.

Specialist weight loss diets are the most effective way to manage weight issues as they are designed to provide all nutrients required, promote fat loss and maintain muscle mass whilst also allowing the dog to feel full. Reducing weight on standard foods is very difficult and requires feeding of approximately two thirds of the recommended amount, based on target weight which can leave patients hungry

1 common reason is selecting an adult food when your pet is technically a senior dog. Make sure Chaos is eating mature/senior version of the brand food you are buying. Also I would try to start feeding your pets in 2 separate bowls if not done so already, and taking a little extra effort to keep their food bowls separate until they get used to the transition. I would only put down about 1/3-1/2 cup food twice daily so maybe a hair less than what you are currently doing. Splitting up the food into 2 meals is ideal for weight loss and maintenance, instead of 1 large meal. Also the begging strips are likely a large source of the fat content. I would limit these to 2-3 times a week and perhaps only 1/2 of the beggin strip. Other less fattening treats are milk ones or dental chews (Virbac dental chews). I hope this helps and just try to actually walk Chaos around the block or neighborhood 2-3 times a week and I am confident you will see a reduction in his weight. Best wishes and take care!

No. If the dogs are at a good weight and body condition score, you are feeding them the appropriate amount of calories. When pets become overweight or underweight, that is a sign that something needs to change. Please feel free to post any additional questions.