[Chepp]

My roomate has a greatdane/boxer mix.I know they are both lean breeds, but I think she is to skinny. She is just over a year, and is only fed once a day. She was worked recently. The reason I think she is to skinny is I can clearly see all of her ribs, her spine, and now her hips are becoming very visable. My gut tells me she is bein malnourished. What are your opinions? I'd you think she is, how can I delicately bring up the topic toy roomate without implying that she can't take care of her dog.

[CorkyMax]

Not sure how you can do it but for the sake of the dog I hope you put the poor dog first! Find the info, pics you need on the net---copy it and show the room mate. How long since the dog has been to a vet---Maybe it is sick. A vet could tell more what may be going on and tell if it is getting fed right too.

[amandabenson]

Poor dog! You know, if your roommate really cared about the dog, I don't think she wouldn't mind you telling her that her dog's too skinny You'll have to tell her so that you guys could take the dog to the vet and have her checked.

[Yogi]

As previous posters noted, the dog does need attention. Anytime the hip bones protrude and spine is visible, this is a sign of malnutrition. Based on the breeds mentioned, this dog should be fed at least 2 times a day. If there is an underlining issue a vet appt would be recommended to confirm. At least rule out any health issues so your roommate would know it is only a food issue. As stated, letting your roommate know would be advisable. If the dog is seen in public by someone, they could report the your roommate to animal services.

[Lunareclipse]

With larger breeds, like great danes, they need to be fed AT LEAST twice a day. 3 times a day if it is a growing puppy. Tell your friend he is starving his dog.

[Chepp]

will her being underfed lead to her being a tired/lazy dog? she gets kenneled for sometime during the day due to classes and work schedules, but when she is let out, she is content to just lay on the couch and sleep all day long. I have met a few boxers and they are usually very high strung very hyper dogs, I understand that Molly(the dog) is only half boxer, but I think she is just very lazy for being so young, and for her breed.

[Yogi]

Originally Posted by Chepp

will her being underfed lead to her being a tired/lazy dog? she gets kenneled for sometime during the day due to classes and work schedules, but when she is let out, she is content to just lay on the couch and sleep all day long. I have met a few boxers and they are usually very high strung very hyper dogs, I understand that Molly(the dog) is only half boxer, but I think she is just very lazy for being so young, and for her breed.

without a doubt it would cause the dog to become tired to the point it has no will to be active. This is generally the result of low blood sugar which can bring on seizures if not addressed promptly. At the age this "pup" is, it should be very active.