Expert: Jannie Balliett - 10/20/2008

Question
I have a male boxer almost 10 monthes old, he weighs about 61 pounds, my son has his two brothers and they both weight 78 & 76 pounds, friends of ours have his three sisters and they all weigh over 70 pounds. My other son has his mom & dad, they weigh 82 (dad) & 45 (mom) My boxer eats well and is very likes to run and play with his mom, dad & bothers. I just wondering if he's kinda small? Our vet hasn't said anything.
Thanks for your help. Leasa

Answer
His weight is not unusual.

If you feed him a high protein, excellent quality, all natural dog food, with no corn, no corn meals, no fillers, and no bi-products, he will gain weight.

Self-feed: Allow him to have a full bowl of food and fresh water at all times. He will eat when hungry, and some dogs eat at different times. Some only eat late at night for instance.

Take him to your vet and have a blood test done to check his thyroid. A thyroid disorder can cause low weight. I recommend Pala-Tech chewables (tablets) for a section of thyroid medicine. Your vet will know the mg, whether it is 0.2, 0.3, or 0.4mg is your vet's recommendation.

Pala-Tech is only about $10-$15 per 180 count bottle and inexpensive.

Also, feed him PLAIN unflavored whole yogurt (no low fat or fat-free) in his dog food. He should probably still eat a high protein puppy chow due to his age and weight.

Try this, and take him to the vet, and let me know in 3 weeks if he has gained weight.

Google all natural dog foods to select one, or visit PetCo or PetSmart and read the labels. ALL NATURAL........