Why Dogs Losing Weight and What to Do

It is expected that the dog's weight to vary slightly over time. For example, if you change their diet to one that is not what they like, they will lose a few pounds. Or they stay inside more during the winter; in this case, they'll gain a little. 

But in some cases, dogs keep losing weight, and you don't know why? If your dog is losing weight unexplained, that can be a sign that a health problem is brewing.

The Reason Behind Weight Loss In Dogs

Understanding the underlying reasons for a dog's weight loss can be complex. Various factors contribute to this phenomenon, encompassing diet, surroundings, and overall well-being. However, discovering the root causes behind unexplained weight loss in dogs can shed light on the issue. Therefore, let's explore some of the prevailing culprits responsible for this condition:

Food: When it comes to dogs and their food, various factors can contribute to changes in their eating habits, potentially resulting in weight loss. One possible reason is that dogs may consume less food if they find something undesirable about their diet. For example, it could result from a recent switch in their food or spoilage in a large food bag before your dog consumes it entirely. Furthermore, insufficient portion sizes or providing low-quality dog food can also play a role in triggering weight loss in your furry companion.

Stress: The impact of stress on a dog's well-being should be considered. When dogs experience anxiety or stress, it can hinder their ability to relax and engage in regular eating habits. In addition, constantly feeling the need to be vigilant can create a sense of unease, making it challenging for them to find comfort and enjoy their meals peacefully. As a result, stress can significantly influence a dog's appetite and overall eating patterns, ultimately contributing to weight loss.

Exercise: Dogs that exercise more and are not taking more calories will lose weight.

Environment: Dogs who spend much time in the cold need more energy to stay warm. Contrariwise, hot temperatures can reduce a dog's appetite.

Reproduction: Dogs in Lactation (nursing puppies) and pregnancy need extra nutrition. They will lose weight if they don't take extra calories.

Dental and other oral problems: If swallowing and chewing are difficult or painful, that will disappoint the dog from eating.

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

Cancer: Cancer in dogs can have multifaceted effects on their overall health, including weight loss. The energy required for cancer cells to proliferate and spread can deplete the available resources, leading to a decline in weight. Moreover, cancer can directly impact a dog's digestive system, causing disruptions in its appetite and overall ability to absorb nutrients properly. 

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders: A range of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders can significantly impact a dog's overall well-being, potentially leading to weight loss. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, lymphoma, adverse food reactions, and partial intestinal blockages can contribute to these disturbances. 

Nasal Problems: When it comes to a dog's appetite, nasal problems can significantly reduce their interest in food. Various conditions that affect their sense of smell can hinder their ability to experience and appreciate their food's aroma fully.

Diabetes mellitus: Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder affecting dogs, often manifests with changes in glucose metabolism that can contribute to weight loss, despite a maintained appetite. 

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI): EPI is a condition in which dogs experience inadequate production of essential digestive enzymes necessary to break down food and absorb vital nutrients. 

Infections: Whether caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, they have the potential to directly impact the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and result in weight loss.

Liver and Kidney diseases: Liver and Kidney disease can significantly impact a dog's overall health, particularly concerning weight and appetite. When these vital organs fail to function properly, waste products accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to feelings of nausea and a diminished appetite in dogs. Additionally, dogs with kidney disease may experience protein loss through their urine, further contributing to weight loss and muscle wasting. 

Heart disease: Weight loss often becomes a prevalent concern as heart disease advances in dogs. The underlying mechanisms behind the cardiac cachexia phenomenon are not yet fully understood.

Addison's disease: Addison's disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition in which dogs experience insufficient production of specific adrenal hormones. This hormonal imbalance can have significant implications for appetite regulation and weight maintenance.

Hyperthyroidism: While relatively uncommon in dogs, hyperthyroidism can notably impact their metabolism and ultimately result in weight loss.

Neurological: Neurological conditions significantly challenge a dog's eating and swallowing abilities, potentially leading to weight loss.

Is My Dog Too Thin?

Assessing your dog's weight and body condition is vital in determining if they are too skinny. While using a reliable digital scale to monitor weight is the most accurate method, evaluating their body condition score can also provide valuable insights. Several indicators can suggest that a dog is too skinny:

1. Prominent ribs or visible bony points are easily noticeable.
2. When viewed from above, their waistline appears highly defined or excessively pronounced.
3. When observed from the side, an exaggerated abdominal tuck is evident.

When To See Vet About Your Dog's Weight Loss

Determining when to seek veterinary attention for your dog's weight loss is important for their well-being. While a slight weight loss may not be an immediate cause for alarm, considering other signs of illness and adjusting their diet or environment can be an excellent first step. However, certain situations warrant prompt veterinary care:

1. A veterinarian should evaluate puppies experiencing weight loss without delay. Puppies should typically gain weight as they grow, so any weight loss or excessive skinniness in a puppy requires immediate attention.
2. Weight loss in older dogs or those with pre-existing health conditions is a significant concern. The risk of serious diseases that can lead to weight loss increases with age, making veterinary assessment crucial.
3. Weight loss accompanied by other symptoms of illness is never normal. Suppose your dog displays signs such as difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, weakness, lethargy, increased thirst, urination, or other problematic symptoms. In that case, scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian is advisable. If the symptoms are severe, contacting a veterinarian can help determine the need for immediate clinic visitation.
4. Rapid or pronounced weight loss should always be addressed. Any underlying health problem can lead to significant weight loss. If your dog has lost over 10% of its average body weight or is losing 2% or more weekly, scheduling a veterinary appointment is essential. Here's a general guideline for different-sized dogs:

• Small-sized dogs: A weight loss of more than 10% or losing 2% or more body weight per week.
• Medium-sized dogs: A weight loss of more than 10% or losing 2% or more body weight per week.
• Large-sized dogs: A weight loss of more than 10% or losing 2% or more body weight per week.

Prompt veterinary attention can help identify the underlying cause of weight loss and ensure appropriate measures are taken to address any health issues affecting your dog's well-being.

Serious Weight Loss in Dogs

How Do Vets Treat Unexplained Weight Loss in Dogs?

When treating unexplained weight loss in dogs, veterinarians employ a comprehensive approach to address the underlying causes effectively. The treatment process typically begins with a thorough inquiry into your dog's diet, appetite, environment, behavior, medical history, and current medications or supplements. The veterinarian will also assess the daily calorie intake and evaluate if it aligns with your dog's energy requirements.

Subsequently, a comprehensive physical examination will be conducted, utilizing the gathered information to recommend appropriate treatment options or further diagnostic tests. For example, initial laboratory work may involve a fecal examination, bloodwork, and urinalysis. Additional testing, such as X-rays, ultrasound examinations, specialized lab tests, endoscopy, exploratory surgery, or tissue biopsies, may be recommended based on the specific case.

Whenever possible, veterinarians prioritize treating the underlying cause of the weight loss to achieve a cure or improvement. For instance, they may prescribe dewormers for intestinal parasites, dental care for oral issues, or antibiotics for bacterial infections. Dietary changes can also play a significant role in helping dogs regain lost weight. Various options are available, including high-calorie and nutrient-dense dog foods for generalized weight gain, highly digestible diets for compromised gastrointestinal function, fiber-enriched diets for specific GI problems or diabetes management, hypoallergenic diets for food allergies or intolerances, and disease-specific diets tailored for kidney or liver disease management.

The appropriate treatment plan, including dietary adjustments and other therapies, will depend on the individual circumstances of your dog's case. It is crucial not to delay seeking veterinary care, as early intervention is key to managing weight loss effectively before it progresses too far. By promptly addressing the issue, you can provide your dog with the necessary care to help them regain weight and improve their overall well-being.