We need to start by addressing the fact that every dog will have his or her own unique metabolism and thus require differing amounts of protein and carbohydrates.
If you have a dog that maintains weight and even gains weight easily (what I like to call an “easy keeper”) likely, the better choice of dog food is a high protein/low carb diet. Whereas, if you have a dog that is hard to keep weight on and high energy it is likely that a food with high carbs/fats and a lower protein will be the best.
Maintaining the proper weight of your dog is very important. Unlike a human that carries extra weight, a dog has no idea when they are pushing too hard. For example, an overweight dog may still try to:
- Jump up in the bed of the truck
- Jump and Spin to catch toys
- Run full blast (up or downstairs), etc..
These activities become dangerous when a dog is overweight. Knee repair or even replacement surgery is the most common procedure in our breed and most often these injuries have nothing to do with some inherited weakness.
The American Pit Bull Terrier has boundless energy and a tenacity that doesn’t let them quit!
On the flip side, it is just as important for your dog to not be underweight/malnourished. Especially during their formative years. A Whippet reaches full maturity at approximately 2.5-3 years old. So it is extremely important that they have the proper nutrition needed to develop to their full potential.
So how do you know what the proper weight is for your dog?
These pictures can help you
Top View: From the top view of your dogs back, you should be able to see a waist. The back should not look like a tube or sausage from the shoulders to the rear.
Side View: Visible Tuck behind ribs where the waist is. You can see where the rib cage is located but not each individual rib.
If you apply these tips to maintaining a proper weight on your dog, your dog will live longer, breath easier and be at a considerably lower risk for active injuries.
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Correct body weight for a whippet
Proper body weight for a whippet
How much should a whippet weigh