Here’s how Ruby dropped 4 pounds (and gained years back) thanks to real ingredients made for real results.
When Ruby, my 13-year-old dachshund, hit 21 pounds, I knew we had to make a change. That might not sound like a lot—but for a small, long-bodied dog like a dachshund, those extra pounds can mean a world of trouble. Our vet warned me:
“It’s not just about her looks. This puts strain on her spine and joints and can shorten her life.”
We tried cutting kibble portions. We tried “weight management” formulas. But Ruby was either still gaining or constantly hungry—and honestly, I didn’t feel good about what was in those bags. Then I found JustFoodForDogs.
Why Weight Is Such a Big Deal for Dachshunds
If you’ve ever loved a dachshund, you know their long backs and short legs make them prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). When they’re overweight, the pressure on their spine skyrockets, increasing the risk of a serious or even paralyzing injury. That’s why healthy weight isn’t just a goal—it’s a necessity.
But losing weight isn’t easy. Dachshunds are experts at begging, and most commercial diets fill them up with fillers or cut calories by stripping out flavor and nutrition. Ruby was always either unsatisfied or getting pudgier. I felt like I was failing her.
What Made Me Try JustFoodForDogs
I stumbled onto JustFoodForDogs after reading about how their meals are made with real, whole-food ingredients—ground pork, rice, butternut squash, green beans—not mysterious “meat meals” or filler carbs. They’re vet-formulated, cooked fresh, and backed by actual studies showing real health benefits. That last part really got me.
Even better, they have a wide variety of recipes custom tailored to different needs for different types of dogs. They have a new healthy weight recipe that is optimized for weight management. This recipe is designed specifically for dogs like Ruby—high-volume meals with fewer calories, so she could eat more while consuming less calories.
The Results: Ruby Is 17 lbs, Energetic, and Thriving at 13
Within a few weeks, I noticed a difference. Ruby was more alert, more playful, and the extra weight started coming off without hunger or stress. Over a few months, she dropped a full 4 pounds—about 20% of her body weight—safely and steadily.
Her vet was stunned. Her back was no longer tender. Her gait improved. Her labs came back perfect. And best of all, Ruby loves her food. She jumps and spins for it every mealtime.
Why I’ll Never Go Back to Kibble
Here’s what I learned
- JustFoodForDogs is made from fresh, whole-food ingredients humans can recognize.
- The wholesome recipes are 40% more digestible than kibble which helps keep dogs full and thriving.
- Their meals are balanced by veterinary nutritionists, not marketing teams.
- They conduct feeding trials, just like prescription diets, and publish the results.
- Every recipe is cooked fresh, not extruded like kibble or freeze-dried like other “fresh” wannabes.
I only wish I had started Ruby on JFFD years earlier. I truly believe this food gave me more time with her.
Ready to Help Your Dog Slim Down and Feel Better?
To get started on your dogs very own weight loss journey today, check out JustFoodForDogs recipe tailored for healthy weight! Start today and get 50% off your first order as a new customer.