Also, he is 9 months and weighs only 50 lbs. He does not eat much, some days he eats a lot, 4 or 5 times a day and other days he just eats half a cup or 1 cup (same food always or a mix of wet and dry). His stools are always normal and he's never had upset stomach that I know of. How do I know if for example his teeth are bothering him? Any clues? Thanks!
I have a golden mix and she weighs only 48 lbs on a good week Doc says she is healthy-but don't allow her to lose any weight She has a sensitivie constitution--so enriched foods do not work with her. She is on puppy food (is 10 years old) and is supplemented with rice, cottage cheese and turkey ix (a table spoon if each in 1 1/2 cup dry food)
Just look at his gums and teeth. The gms should be smooth and tight with a nice medium pink color. Red and swollen = pain but you'd also see the dog wince a bit when eating if that was the problem.
I would recommend a very regular schedule of feeding and exercise. I do two feedings a day with snacks earned from training which the dogs love. the main feedings are folllowed by 40 mins-1+hrs of walking/jogging. The boys are housebroken like clockwork.
It could be that yoru dog needs more regular exercise in order to be hungry but it doesn't sound like anything to worry about. It's better for the dog ot be lean and healthy than heavier.
Every extra pound on a dog is like 10+ pounds extra on you. In the long run it will take its toll on him so keep him exercised and let him eat on schedule.
He looks in great shape and has a healthy looking coat. It's also good to mix in a little veggies into the diet when you can. Carrots, broccoli and cabbage are as good for the dogs as they are for you!
We feed our dogs free choice all day of kibble. They eat somedays more than others. If he seems at all ill, have a stool sample done at the vets to test for worms, etc.
Bless your heart, you don't need to worry so much. Do you eat the same amount every day? I sure don't. As far as teeth go, he probably wouldn't have any dental problems at this age. If you're as good a pet owner as you sound I'm sure you have a regular vet. When you do your yearly check-up or vaccinations you can be sure the doc looks in his mouth for any problems. You can do this yourself. Now is a good time to get him used to it. Pay close attention to the back teeth. Look on the outside of the rear molars. Tarter will build up there first. You COULD brush his tgeeth if you were so inclined....
I've found with my pets (and my children) that if I watch them fairly closely I can pick up on changes that aren't very noticable to other people. Just don't expect same old same old from your dog. Somedays he'll play, other days he'll feel lazy. My rule of thumb is if something different (not eating, not playing) goes on for more than 2 days I get concerned.
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