Is my boxer under weight

Question
I took my 13 month old female boxer to the vet this morning to have her spade. My mother-in-law,who works there, kept stressing that she was under weight and people might think she is neglected. She weighed in at 42 pounds. She is a very active dog and loves to run %26 eat:) Is she under weight? I don't want her OVER weight,but I don't want her under weight. Thanks a million.

Answer
Hi Toy,

I would say yes she is under weight as well. The ideal weight would be about 5O lbs at her age. You want to feel the ribs but not see them. None of her back bones should be visible.Check the dog food label you are feeding her and make sure it is at least 28% protein.Feed her at least 4 cups of food a day and you may try adding 1/2 a can of canned dog food with her meals,feed a minimum of twice a day. So 2 1/2 cups in the morning and 2 1/2 cups in the evening.Have the vet check her for parasites as well. Thanks so much for your question.

Angela Donald
Canine Behavior Consultant
http://www.hitowerboxers.com