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Eddie

19 17:32:37

Question
I have a 1 year old intact male GSD named Eddie. He lost his one buddy in March to nasal cancer(10 years old Rottie/Shar Pei). He weighed in at about 80lbs at that point. After she passed away he went down to about 70lbs and has only gained about 4lbs back. Should I be worried? My vet said that GSD's should be light due to hip conditions but he is about 27 inches tall and looks very thin and I don't have to search hard for ribs,spine or hip points despite eating a can and a half of food along with free choice Canidae hard food. He is very high energy so maybe it's just his motabolism.We have tested his stool countless times and they have been clear.I'm just worried because of the timing of his weight loss and the loss of his friend. By the way he also has a 12 years old neutered Rottie mix and a 6 month old spayed Great Dane that he lives with so he's not alone. I love him and want to do whats best. Thank You!

Answer
Your vet has seen him, and I haven't.  If you can't see his ribs, likely he is fine as your vet said.  You might look at http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx  Often Shepherds do fall on the light side.  The worst thing you could do is bribe him into eating more with rich food that would unbalance his diet.