Old age

[Jaxta09]

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Hi guys my bullmastiff is 7 years old so we know she unfortunately reaching the end off her days . She has never been a big built dog . She is loosing weight now vets have checked her out and say it’s just old age any tips on getting a bit off weight back on.she is still happy in herself and eating her meal she only gets fed once a day was thinking off making it twice . Any suggestions would be greatly listened to .

 

[JudyN]

I hadn't realised they had such short lifespans - it must be hard to watch her decline

Does she have any problems apart from weight loss, such as joint problems? There are a lot of supplements that help some dogs.

It's normally recommended that you feed dogs twice a day so I think this would be a good idea - it may encourage her to eat more, and keep her energy levels up. Could a change of food help too? My cat is 20 and has lost weight, and it was recommended that I feed him kitten rather than senior food to give him more calories. Introducing some wet food has helped him put on a little weight too, so if you're feeding kibble, adding wet food could be a good idea.

Bear in mind though that increasing weight could put more stress on her joints - she may be better a little underweight rather than overweight.

 

[excuseme]

I think it is better and easier for an elderly dog to be a lighter weight. If your vet is happy with her maybe she is best remaining a bit on the light side.

 

[Mad Murphy]

Its true a lighter dog will have less stress on joints but if youre worried maybe an enriched diet is what your looking for rather than just more food. Making sure that all the protiens and minerals that will help keep her happy and healthy for as long as possible.
In the meantime I can only offer you the advice my vet gave me and which I found very helpful. Enjoy every day you have, rejoice that you have had it, understand there might not be many more but dont dwell on it and never pass up the chance to tell them you love them.

 

[Macbeth]

What type of food is she on? It might be an idea to feed twice a day and like already mentioned it might be an idea to mix grain free dog meat to her biscuits too. We switched one of our fostered Great Danes to Raw Food to build up his condition and it worked wonders. He was much younger but speak to a RAW specialist and they would be able to advise.