12/06/2026
🍂 Rosie’s struggle with weightloss🍂
One thing nobody really prepared us for after Rosie was spayed was just how much harder it became to maintain a healthy weight. Yet Stella who also was spayed on the exact same day is perfectly slim zero issues with weight. The struggle is real!
Like many desexed dogs, Rosie’s metabolism slowed down after her surgery. While reducing food can help, it isn’t always as simple as feeding less. Feeding too little can leave dogs feeling hungry, unsatisfied and can sometimes lead to nutritional imbalances if not managed correctly.
Some things we have found helpful include:
🐾 Measuring meals rather than estimating portions
🐾 Using low-calorie treats or allocating treats from the daily food allowance
🐾 Adding low-calorie vegetables such as green beans, zucchini or pumpkin to help increase fullness
🐾 Maintaining regular exercise and mental enrichment
🐾 Monitoring body condition regularly rather than relying solely on the scales
🐾 Choosing a quality diet with appropriate protein levels to help maintain muscle mass
Every dog is different and what works for one may not work for another, but keeping a close eye on weight after desexing is something we take seriously with all of our dogs.
💡 One small correction often missed by owners: after spaying, a dog’s energy requirements can decrease by around 20–30%, but reducing food by that amount immediately isn’t always the best approach. Maintaining muscle through exercise and ensuring adequate protein is just as important as reducing calories. This is especially relevant in miniature dachshunds where excess weight can place additional strain on their backs and joints. 🐾❤️
And while Rosie may occasionally argue that she is “starving” (usually five minutes after dinner 😆), we’re committed to keeping her healthy and happy for many years to come.
🍁 Another thing we love about Rosie is her beautiful shaded red coat. Throughout the year her colouring naturally changes with the seasons. During the warmer months her coat often becomes richer and darker, while cooler months can bring lighter golden and copper tones through her feathering and body coat.
It’s one of the many reasons we adore shaded reds — they are always changing, yet always beautiful.
Does anyone else have a dachshund whose coat colour changes throughout the year? We’d love to see photos in the comments! ❤️🐾
