g.s.d.

Question
hi mr.Labman,
are all german shepherds are double coat ,mine is a single coat ,she is also smaller than an average female german shepherd. she is thin and one can see her ribs from distance. Is there any deficiency in her diet? is she an hybrid or some genetic problem is there,and also is it necessary to feed a G.S.D. with chicken?
thanks.


Answer
I don't think dogs that aren't out in the cold really develop the inner coat of a double coat.  

How old is your dog?  It is a common problem for young Shepherds to refuse to eat enough to keep their ribs hidden.  You really should talk to your vet about it the next time you are in.  Take a stool sample to check for worms.  Watch for tape worm segments.  If the vet says she is OK, just keep feeding her a decent chow and nothing else.  Plain chicken is not a complete and balanced diet.  A light eater can't afford to be eating anything that isn't.  A shepherd should also be on an adult chow once it is past 4 months old.  That slows growth, allowing more time to develop sturdy joints.  A dog is much better off having its ribs show a little than be eating an unbalanced diet.  Don't feed it chicken or anything else but a dog chow.