Just like humans, dogs come in all shapes and sizes. While some owners struggle with overweight pets, others face the challenge of helping their furry companions gain a healthy amount of weight. Whether it’s due to a recent illness, high energy levels, poor nutrition, or a naturally fast metabolism, some dogs need extra calories to maintain optimal body condition. This leads many pet owners to ask: “What human food can I give my dog to gain weight?”
This question is both important and delicate. Feeding your dog human food should always be done with care and informed knowledge. Not all human foods are safe for dogs, and some can even be toxic. However, when chosen wisely, many human foods can offer a nutritious boost to your dog’s diet and help them gain healthy weight.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes of underweight in dogs, the right types of human foods that can be safely incorporated into their diet, feeding tips, and potential risks to watch out for. By the end, you’ll have a complete guide to safely helping your dog gain weight with human food.
Also read: Can Dogs Eat Pickles?
Why Is My Dog Underweight?
Before jumping to the solution, it’s important to understand why your dog might be underweight. Several factors can contribute:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| High Activity Level | Active breeds like Greyhounds or Border Collies may burn more calories. |
| Illness or Parasites | Conditions like worms, diabetes, or kidney disease can cause weight loss. |
| Stress or Anxiety | Environmental changes can affect a dog’s appetite and metabolism. |
| Poor Nutrition | Incomplete or unbalanced diets can lead to malnourishment. |
| Picky Eating Habits | Some dogs are just choosy and may not eat enough. |
If your dog is losing weight rapidly or appears malnourished, a veterinarian check-up is essential before trying to fix it with food. Once medical causes are ruled out or treated, dietary changes can be safely introduced.
Signs Your Dog Needs to Gain Weight
It’s not always easy to tell if a dog is underweight. Use these signs as a general guideline:
- Ribs, spine, and bones are clearly visible
- No fat layer can be felt
- Dull coat or shedding fur
- Low energy levels or fatigue
- Loss of muscle mass
- Weighs significantly below breed average
If these signs match your dog’s current state, it’s time to consider a nutrient-rich, calorie-boosting diet, including some safe human foods.
Best Human Foods to Help Dogs Gain Weight
Here’s a list of safe and high-calorie human foods you can feed your dog to help them gain healthy weight. These foods are nutritious, appealing, and safe in moderation.
Lean Meats
- Examples: Chicken (no bones), turkey, lean beef, pork (in small amounts)
- Benefits: High in protein and fat for muscle growth
- How to Serve: Cooked, plain (no seasoning, onions, or garlic)
Cooked Eggs
- Benefits: Rich in protein, fat, and essential vitamins
- How to Serve: Boiled or scrambled, without butter or seasoning
Peanut Butter
- Benefits: Healthy fats, protein, and calories
- Warning: Ensure it’s xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs
- Tip: Use as a treat or mix into kibble
Sweet Potatoes
- Benefits: High in fiber, beta-carotene, and complex carbohydrates
- How to Serve: Cooked and mashed
Brown Rice or Oatmeal
- Benefits: Source of slow-digesting carbs and calories
- How to Serve: Cooked thoroughly and plain
Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt
- Benefits: Calcium, protein, and probiotics
- Warning: Only if your dog tolerates dairy
Pumpkin or Squash
- Benefits: Good for digestion and adds bulk to meals
- How to Serve: Cooked, mashed, and plain (not the pie filling)
Bananas and Apples (No Seeds)
- Benefits: Natural sugars and fiber
- Tip: Use as snacks, not main meals
Salmon or Sardines (Cooked)
- Benefits: Omega-3 fatty acids for coat and weight gain
- How to Serve: Cooked and boneless
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil (Small Amounts)
- Benefits: Adds calories and improves coat health
- How to Serve: Mix a teaspoon into food
Also read: Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows?
Sample Weight-Gain Meal Plan (With Human Foods)
Here is a basic sample diet plan for a 50-pound underweight dog:
| Meal Time | Food Combination |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Scrambled eggs (2), cooked oatmeal (½ cup), spoon of peanut butter |
| Lunch | Cooked chicken (1 cup), sweet potato mash (½ cup), olive oil (1 tsp) |
| Dinner | Brown rice (1 cup), ground beef (1 cup), pumpkin puree (¼ cup) |
| Snacks | Cottage cheese (¼ cup), banana slices, apple (few small pieces, no seeds) |
Note: Always introduce new foods slowly and watch for allergic reactions or digestive upset.
Important Feeding Tips
Here are some expert tips to make weight gain safe and effective:
- Small, Frequent Meals: Feed 3–4 small meals daily instead of one or two large ones.
- Gradual Increase: Increase calories slowly to avoid upset stomach.
- Hydration: Ensure your dog drinks plenty of water throughout the day.
- Exercise: Mild to moderate exercise helps improve appetite and build muscle.
- Consistency: Stick to the plan for at least 2–4 weeks and track progress.
- Vet Consultation: Always check with your vet before making dietary changes.
Human Foods to Avoid Completely
Some human foods are toxic to dogs and should never be fed:
| Toxic Foods | Effects on Dogs |
|---|---|
| Chocolate | Causes heart issues, seizures, or death |
| Grapes/Raisins | Can lead to kidney failure |
| Onions/Garlic | Damages red blood cells |
| Xylitol (in gum) | Dangerous drop in blood sugar |
| Alcohol | Can be fatal even in small doses |
| Raw Dough | Expands and causes bloating, alcohol poisoning |
| Caffeinated Drinks | Stimulants harmful to dogs |
When to See a Vet
Despite all efforts, some dogs may not gain weight due to underlying health issues. If your dog shows the following symptoms, visit your veterinarian immediately:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite for more than 48 hours
- Lethargy or weakness
- Persistent weight loss
- Signs of pain or distress
Conclusion: Safe Weight Gain with Love and Knowledge
Helping your dog gain weight can be a journey that requires time, patience, and the right approach. Introducing calorie-dense, nutritious human foods like lean meats, eggs, peanut butter, rice, and sweet potatoes can make a big difference—provided they are safe, prepared properly, and balanced with your dog’s existing diet.
Always remember that not all weight gain is good gain. Your goal should be to help your dog build muscle mass, energy, and overall health, not just pack on pounds. If you’re ever in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to develop a personalized plan that fits your dog’s specific needs.
