Help! My Dog is So Thin I Can Feel His Ribs! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“My Schnauzer-schnoodle Sammie is almost 8 years old. He has gotten really thin. He eats just a little bit. He gets an hour walk every day. He is very thin, and I can feel his ribs. How can I get some weight on him? His diet is Ollie twice a day. Minimum treats.“ – Kathleen
Quick Info about Sammie
Hi Kathleen,
When a dog like Sammie begins to lose weight and his appetite drops, it is the body asking us to look a little deeper rather than simply offering more food. Feeling his ribs more easily tells us he is losing both fat and muscle, which is not expected in a stable adult dog. At this age, changes like this are often linked to dental discomfort, digestive inefficiency, or metabolic conditions that affect how the body uses nutrients, even when the diet itself is balanced.
The kindest and most effective next step is a veterinary visit with a full physical exam, including a careful look at his mouth, along with bloodwork and a urinalysis. These allow us to understand what his body needs instead of guessing. In the meantime, you can gently support him by making meals more inviting, slightly warming his food to enhance the smell, and offering smaller, more frequent portions. Keeping his daily walks steady but not overly demanding helps protect his energy reserves while you work toward answers, so he is supported both nutritionally and physically during this transition.
Sincerely,
– Dr. Paola