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2ROWDY

New Member
Hello everyone. I rescued a mastiff about 5 months ago. I stumbled across this forum looking for healthy ways to get him to gain weight. Jeager will be 2 years old in December. He had a severe skin infection when I picked him up and was very under weight. Skin infection is gone and coat came back. He weighed 137 pounds and the vet said he needed to gain around 15 pounds. He gained some and then lost it again. I free feed him and he won't seem to gain any weight. I am now feeding 4health large breed grain free from Tractor Supply. He is happy and has plenty of energy. You can see all his ribs and back bone. Does anyone have any suggestions.
 

DennasMom

Well-Known Member
If his poops are nice and healthy (i.e. solid), you could start adding some extra fat to his meals - VERY slowly. Maybe start with a tablespoon of olive oil per day. Salmon/fish oil would be another good one to use (omega 3's would be good for his skin, too). Coconut oil is another favorite, with other side-benefits, too.

Or... you could go the route that ranchers go and use carbs (grain) to bulk up the animal... but, I think I'd rather have a skinny mastiff than one bulked up on carbs.

If you search for "satin balls for dogs" there are recipes out there for what are essentially twinkies for dogs (but with a better nutrition profile) - show people use them to add 'padding' to healthy dogs to make them show in the ring better (judges seem to like more padding for some reason).

Can you post any pictures?? I'd love to see your pup!!

And... Welcome to the Forum! :)
 

2ROWDY

New Member
Thanks for the reply and the welcome.
Jaeger does have good solid bm's. I think I will try a little coconut oil, but he is very picky. I will also try to post a few pics in this thread also.