Gaining or Losing Weight

Is my Greyhound too Fat or too thin?
Usually when someone is asking, it is because they have slipped over that line to “chubby” greyhound — and most people know that Kari is a purist and prefers to see the greyhounds a little thin as opposed to a lot fat.

You should be able to see the shadow of their ribs & feel their hip bones when your greyhound is in prime pet condition. Here are suggestions if your greyhound needs to drop or add a few pounds.

Losing Weight
It seems obvious to say cut back on the amount of food you give them but that really is the key — but to keep your greyhound from thinking that their throat has been cut & they are starving, you can add green beans to their kibble (frozen or canned — rinse canned to get rid of salt) — if you cut back a cup of food, substitute a cup of green beans — very filling but with few calories.

You also want to limit treats and stay away from high calorie additives like canned food.

Exercise helps also!

Gaining Weight:
If your greyhound is older or has been ill, they may need to pick up a few pounds — or just not lose any more. If they have cut back on their consumption due to age or health you want to give them food that is higher in calories, so they get more bang for their buck. Some of the things you can add or try are: puppy food – kibble puppy food or other canned pumpkin (a couple of tablespoons) scrambled eggs

For a seriously ill dog or one that just doesn’t eat much because of age you can try this recipe below:

Fat Balls Recipe

• Mix all together and make meatballs a little bigger than a golf ball.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes.
• Give 2-3 twice a day, either mixed in with kibble or as treats.
• They do well in the freezer.
• Great for hiding pills and helps firm up poops.