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A Picky Eater’s Journey to a Healthy Weight with Ollie

Catherine Carchedi, MS, DVM

Lindsay Cassibry, MPH, DVM

Brittany White, PhD

A long-haired dachshund with a dappled gray and black coat stands on a table, while a hand gently holds its head.
A person with a tattooed arm holds a small, long-haired dog with a speckled coat on a stainless steel surface.

PATIENT PROFILE

  • Name: Schnapps

  • Breed: Long haired dachshund

  • Age: 6 years

  • Starting Weight: 7 lbs

  • Starting BCS: 3/9 (Underweight)

  • Diet History: Multiple commercial diets tried with poor acceptance; frequent digestive upset (loose stools, occasional vomiting).

  • Feeding Challenges: Extremely selective appetite; known history of food refusal and sensitivity to dietary changes.

INITIAL PRESENTATION

Schnapps presented with a history of poor appetite, frequent gastrointestinal upset, and visible signs of being underweight. His ribs, lumbar vertebrae, and pelvic bones were easily palpable and visible, with minimal fat covering. His BCS (Body Condition Score) was assessed at 3/9. His owner reported a long-standing struggle to find a food he would reliably eat.

INTERVENTION: TRANSITION TO OLLIE

Schnapps transitioned to Ollie Fresh Food over the course of 7 days, beginning with 3 days of fresh turkey, followed by 3 days of fresh lamb, then 3 days of fresh pork. The selection was based on its high digestibility, palatability, and simple ingredient list. Transition was closely monitored and adjusted for his sensitive gastrointestinal system. Since the introduction of each recipe, Schnapps now chooses which recipe he would like to eat each day between turkey, lamb and pork. 

Key features of Ollie that supported Schnapps’ needs:

  • Gently cooked, human-grade ingredients for improved digestibility

  • Single-protein recipes with limited ingredients

  • Enhanced palatability due to fresh preparation and whole food aroma

  • Pre-portioned meals to support precise caloric delivery

PROGRESS OVER 2 MONTHS

Week 1–2: Schnapps began consistently finishing his meals for the first time in months. Stool quality improved within days of full transition, becoming more formed and predictable.

Week 3–4: Appetite remained steady. His guardian noted increased energy levels and more regular bowel movements. Digestive upset resolved completely.

Week 5–8: Physical exam revealed a healthy fat covering over ribs with minimal abdominal tuck. His BCS improved to 4/9 — at the lower end of ideal, which is appropriate given his breed and body type.

OUTCOME

After two months on Ollie, Schnapps reached an ideal weight and body condition. He continues to eat consistently and has shown no recurrence of digestive issues. The ease of feeding and improved health outcomes have significantly reduced stress for his guardian.

Final Assessment:

  • Current Weight: 9.5 lbs

  • Current BCS: 4/9 (Ideal)

  • Appetite: Normal

  • Digestive Health: Normal stools, no vomiting or discomfort

  • Satisfaction: High

Long-haired dachshund being petted, standing on a scale, and viewed from above in a bathroom setting.

CONCLUSION

Schnapps' case demonstrates how a tailored, highly palatable, and digestible fresh food diet like Ollie can successfully address weight gain in underweight dogs with feeding challenges and gastrointestinal sensitivities. The combination of nutritional quality and format helped turn a chronic picky eater into a consistent feeder — supporting long-term health and quality of life.