What I would like to know is, the average amount of dry dog food to feed an adult German Shorthair p

I'm dog sitting for two German Shorthair Pointers and they are both skin and bones. I don't feel that the amount of dry food they are giving them is nearly enough on a daily basis. So I'm looking for input on the proper amount. Thanks for your input.

:) I have a Shorthair, and I hope my explanation will help you. I can't see the dogs in question, but I can tell you (in general) about GSPs.

First off, a GSP is supposed to be a lean, muscular dog without a lot of extra padding. What looks normal on a lab or a golden retriever is NOT normal or healthy on a GSP. Extra weight can be harmful for their long-term health .

If these are hunting dogs they will be even more lean-looking than a housepet GSP. These dogs are athletes and have been bred to go all day in the field. Picture a human marathon runner--lean and strong.

Here is a photogallery of some GSPs in the field from one of the best kennels in the country:

http://www.fieldfine.homestead.com/photo...

While adding extra food may seem like a good idea at first, it could have an immediate---and unfortunate---side effect for the dogs as over-feeding can lead to diarrhea.

**Something which may also make you feel better:

Check the side of the dry dog food bag and see if what you are giving matches the bag. (FYI: Males range from about 55 to 70 pounds and a female ranges from 45 to 60 pounds.)

If you are feeding a super high-quality food this may translate into just over 2 cups of food a day because the food is so nutrient and calorie-dense.