Expert: Jannie Balliett - 7/26/2008

Question
Hi.  Sammy is a two-year-old white boxer.  I got him at 8 weeks from Boxer Rescue, and he has always been on the lean side.  He's about 55lbs now, and simply does not have an appetite.  His ribs, vertebrae and hip joints are often visible.  Otherwise he appears healthy.  The vet says he just isn't a big eater, and suggested a high performance diet.  Sammy has a sensitive system so that's not effective because he seems to have allergies (Nutro- HP)and has an explosive response to corn, wheat, etc.  I have started to gradually switch him to Nature's Recipe and supplement with wet and dry.  He's still not enthused, and it doesn't matter whether I feed him twice a day or leave a large feeder at his disposal, his weight does not go up. He's a happy dog and is playful and energetic.  I just want him to be healthier.  Any suggestions are appreciated.  Thanks.

Answer
He has thyroid problems. Notice he sheds a lot?

Thryoid disorder cause ribs to show, no weight gain and under weight, yet, they eat okay and play normally. They shed more than a dog without thryoid disorder.

It's a simple test taking blood from the artery in his neck and putting it in a machine. An hour later, you'll have the results.

My female takes a thyroid pill every morning and one every night. She weighs 55-60 lbs at 3 1/2 years old.

Your boy at 2 years old should weight 70-90 lbs, average 80 lbs.

Thyroid imbalance is my guess. Let a Boxer-savvy vet test him- and shame on your vet for not testing him already!!!