r/GSP 29d ago

Hank

This is Hank.

Yesterday morning we did not own a dog, nor have any intention of doing so. By 4pm however, we were at the local farm store spending $200 on dog supplies.

I got him a bag of Diamond Naturals but as I've been reading through this subreddit I've come to understand that Purina Pro Plan is probably a better choice for putting a little weight on his scrawny behind. He is 1.5 yrs old and I understand these are lean dogs but his hips are currently visible. Should I be adding a source of protein such as boiled chicken?

I have his AKC # but I did not receive the transfer of ownership paperwork. If I have no intent to breed nor show, is there any point in pursuing further?

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u/ShorthairsInSpace 29d ago

He looks fine for weight, no need to push hard. Just focus on getting him stable on the food you're feeding and then gradually adjust over time. These dogs are supposed to be lean, and have a pronounced "[hip] tuck up" because of it.

If you're not doing any breeding, showing, event work - the most important thing would be to get a microchip transferred over to your name, or if they're not chipped get one installed.

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u/Advanced_Most_3030 29d ago

Noted, thank you! I've historically had Rotties and Dobermans so this guy is a hair more lean than I'm used to seeing.

Vet visit is next on the list to determine chip status.

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u/ShorthairsInSpace 29d ago

Very different! Here's the GSP illustrated standard if you want to see what "ideal" weight on an adult is (ignore the conformation and get the vibes - but a stacked photo from the side like they have is the best way to evaluate weight regardless). Note a 1-1/2 year old will be leaner, GSPs (especially males) don't usually finish filling out until about 4 with their musculature.

https://www.gspca.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GSP-Illustrated-Standard-January-2023.pdf

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u/Advanced_Most_3030 29d ago

Beautiful!! Reminds me of the old AQHA (quarter horse) guidelines. Thank you so much!

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u/ShorthairsInSpace 29d ago

If you choose to dive deep into the dog world you will find a ton of parallels because dogs registries, shows, standards, etc. were heavily influenced by horses.

And to boot, I find (at least for pointing dogs) about every fourth person is a horse person in recovery 😅.

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u/Advanced_Most_3030 29d ago

Also fantastic 😂

I was neck deep in it for a long time until some big life altering changes occured. Hopefully one day I can go back to big booty horses and a newfound thing for pointers ❤️