Thin

[Dutchringgirl]

Since Saide has HD, what weight would be optimal? She is 13 months and about 50 lbs, she is thin. She is also very narrow so its quite funny looking. A bit too thin for my taste but I know she should be on the lighter side now. She is super active and we hike about twice a week or get out for a romp around the yard. She is on raw and gets about 1lb a day.

[Lauren]

I have heard that thin is better.... but I'm no expert.

[CaroleBoaz]

I think if her ribs are showing, then you've gone too thin.

[ZodiacT]

It's hard to say what weight she should be since ideal weight range can be different from dog to dog. A general rule is that you should be able to feel the ribs with very little pressure but not be able to see them.

Here's a helpful body condition chart we used to have hanging in our exam rooms at the vet clinic: http://dogs4ppp.files.wordpress.com/200 ... t_dogs.jpg

[Dutchringgirl]

Thanks alot ZodiacT, that really helps. I have upped her food amount too. I hope she widens out too as she matures physically.

[vneerland]

For a dog with bad hips, it would be best to keep her trim, but not thin, of course.
Also, though, it may be age related. Lots of young dogs go through a stage, much like human teenagers, where they are lanky. If the body scoring is correct, then keep doing what you are doing and have patience. They will fill when they mature.

[Dutchringgirl]

I have been trying to get a front view but getting her to stand isnt easy. I think she got the lanky leftovers when they made the other Dutchies.