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Best Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs

When it comes to helping your dog gain weight safely and effectively, the choice of supplements plays a crucial role. Whether your dog is underweight due to illness, stress, or age, adding the right high-calorie supplements can make a huge difference in their overall health. This comprehensive guide will explore the best weight gain supplements for dogs, shedding light on the various options available and how they can help improve your dog’s weight and vitality.

Best Weight Gain Supplements for Dogs from Under the Weather 

Ready Cal High-Calorie Supplement for Dogs

One of the most trusted and effective products available is Ready Cal High-Calorie Supplement for Dogs. This gel-based formula offers a convenient way to deliver essential nutrients and calories to your dog in situations where they may not be able to consume their usual portions of food. Administering the supplement is simple—either directly into your dog's mouth or mixed with food—which makes it an excellent option for picky eaters or dogs with a reduced appetite.

For dogs recovering from surgery or illness, high-calorie supplements like Ready Cal provide the energy boost they need to heal and regain strength. Additionally, it’s perfect for senior dogs that naturally have lower appetites and energy levels, ensuring they maintain proper body condition. Regular use, alongside a balanced diet, can ensure that your dog is getting everything it needs without the need to overfeed them, which can lead to digestive issues​

Benefits of Ready Cal:

  • Contains 10 essential vitamins and 7 minerals to support immune health.
  • Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
  • Vet-formulated to provide optimal nutrition in a convenient gel form.
  • Made in the USA without artificial flavors or dyes​

Administering Ready Cal is simple. The dial-a-dose tube allows for precision, ensuring that you’re giving your dog the appropriate amount for their size and needs. For picky eaters or dogs that may not have the strength to consume full meals, the gel can be placed directly into their mouth, delivering immediate energy.

In addition to its high-calorie content, Ready Cal is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, helping your dog regain energy while also supporting immune function and coat health. Many dog owners find that their pets experience a noticeable improvement in vitality and mood after just a few days of consistent use. For those with dogs recovering from surgery or illness, Ready Cal offers a convenient solution to help boost calorie intake while the dog recovers​.

Ready Cal is particularly popular among dog owners whose pets are recovering from illness or dealing with a decreased appetite. Its high-calorie content allows your dog to consume the energy they need in smaller portions, making it an excellent choice for dogs that have trouble eating large meals.

Colostrum Supplements for Immune Support

Colostrum offers significant benefits beyond just weight gain. This powerful supplement is rich in growth factors and antibodies that help support the immune system. Colostrum has long been used in both human and veterinary medicine to promote gut health and improve overall immunity. For dogs with gastrointestinal issues, this supplement helps improve nutrient absorption by reducing inflammation and promoting the regeneration of gut cells.

Studies have shown that dogs with strong immune systems are better able to maintain a healthy weight, especially when recovering from illness. Colostrum supplements work in tandem with weight gain products like Ready Cal, ensuring your dog gets both the calories and immune support they need for full recovery​.

By improving your dog's immune response and gut health, colostrum supplements make it easier for your pet to regain the weight and muscle mass they may have lost during illness or injury​.

High-Calorie Bland Diet for Dogs

For dogs with sensitive stomachs, switching to a bland diet can help improve weight gain while being gentle on the digestive system. Under the Weather’s Bland Diet offers a simple, effective solution for dogs dealing with gastrointestinal issues. These diets are made from easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken, rice, and pumpkin, which soothe the stomach and ensure proper nutrient absorption.

The Ready Cal High-Calorie Powder can be mixed into bland diets, providing an extra caloric boost without causing stomach upset. This combination is ideal for dogs that are struggling with both weight loss and digestive discomfort​.

Collagen Chews for Muscle Maintenance

Weight gain isn't just about adding fat—it's also about maintaining muscle mass. Collagen Chews from Under The Weather are a great supplement to support your dog’s muscle and joint health. Collagen isn’t just beneficial for humans—dogs can experience significant improvements in muscle and joint health with regular collagen supplementation. For dogs struggling with weight loss, it's important to prevent muscle atrophy during the recovery process. Collagen Chews provide the essential proteins that support muscle repair, ensuring your dog remains active and mobile.

Senior dogs, in particular, benefit from collagen as it helps reduce joint pain and supports flexibility, allowing them to stay active even when they’re in the process of regaining weight. Active dogs that have experienced weight loss due to injury or illness can also recover faster when collagen is included in their daily routine​

Why Do Dogs Lose Weight?

Before jumping into the best supplements for weight gain, it’s essential to understand the common reasons why dogs lose weight. Not all weight loss is the result of underfeeding; there are several potential factors that might be at play, including:

  • Illness: A broad range of illnesses, from infections to chronic conditions like diabetes, can lead to weight loss in dogs. Gastrointestinal issues often result in vomiting or diarrhea, making it difficult for dogs to absorb the nutrients they need.
  • Age: As dogs age, their metabolism slows down, and they may lose muscle mass, leading to natural weight loss.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Just like humans, dogs can lose their appetite when they’re feeling stressed or anxious. Any disruption to their routine—moving houses, the introduction of a new pet, or changes in the family dynamic—can impact their eating habits.
  • Dental Issues: Dogs with dental problems might avoid eating because of discomfort, which leads to weight loss.
  • Parasites: Intestinal parasites, such as worms, can steal vital nutrients, preventing your dog from maintaining a healthy weight​.

Recognizing the cause of weight loss is the first step toward finding a solution. In many cases, high-calorie supplements can be a game-changer for pets who struggle to gain or maintain weight.


 

Close-up of dog with open mouth

How to Choose the Best Weight Gain Supplement for Your Dog

When choosing a supplement, it’s important to transition your dog slowly, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. Start by introducing small amounts into their regular meals, monitoring for any changes in digestion or energy levels. Gradually increase the dosage as recommended by your veterinarian to ensure your dog receives the full benefits without overwhelming their system.

Monitoring your dog’s progress is key. Look for signs of improvement in their energy levels, coat quality, and overall demeanor. If your dog continues to struggle with weight gain despite using supplements, consult your vet to rule out any underlying health issues​

Considerations When Choosing a Supplement:

  • Nutrient Density: Look for supplements that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
  • Digestibility: For dogs with sensitive stomachs, choose easily digestible formulas like bland diets or liquid supplements.
  • Ease of Administration: If your dog is a picky eater, consider gel-based supplements that can be administered directly or mixed into their food.
  • Specific Health Needs: If your dog has joint issues or muscle loss, consider adding collagen supplements to support recovery​.

Signs Your Dog Might Need a Weight Gain Supplement

How do you know if your dog needs a weight gain supplement? Some common signs of inadequate nutrition or weight loss in dogs include:

  • Visible weight loss: If you can see your dog’s ribs or spine more prominently, it may be time to introduce a weight gain supplement.
  • Low energy levels: Dogs that are not getting enough calories will often become lethargic and less active.
  • Dull coat or dry skin: A poor diet can lead to a dull, brittle coat and dry, flaky skin.
  • Loss of muscle mass: If your dog is losing muscle tone, it’s a sign that they’re not getting enough nutrients.
  • Decreased appetite: Picky eaters or dogs that are recovering from surgery or illness often don’t consume enough calories from their regular diet​.

Final Thoughts

Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight isn’t just about appearance—it’s critical for their overall vitality and long-term health. From the Ready Cal High-Calorie Supplement to Collagen Chews and colostrum, you now have a comprehensive understanding of the best weight gain supplements for dogs. These products offer a reliable, veterinarian-formulated solution for dogs needing extra calories and nutritional support, whether they’re recovering from illness or simply struggling with a loss of appetite.

If your furry friend is losing weight or needs a bit of a nutritional boost, it's never been easier to find the perfect product for them. Help your pet here with products that are effective, easy to administer, and trusted by pet owners everywhere. After all, a healthy pet means a happy home!