GARDENERS' World star Monty Don has responded to fans' concerns about his "skinny" dog.
After a picture of his pet appeared online, where its ribs could be clearly seen through its fur, Monty turned to social media to reassure followers.
The 67-year-old said that his dog Ned's thin appearance was not a sign of ill health.
He assured those online that his Golden Retriever was in great spirits and will "fill out shortly".
"Ned ribby but fine and very fit and well," he penned to his 1.1 million followers on Instagram.
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Fans were quick to rush to the comments section to support Monty, as many said they have the same experience with their dogs.
One wrote: "Mine looked like that in the beginning too, they fill out well, he’s going to be a strong boy."
A second commented: "It's nothing to worry about, he won't be like that for much longer."
A third added: "They stretch out before they fill out, it's nothing serious don't worry."
A fourth penned: "What a handsome dog! He will be strong."
A fifth wrote: "Lovely dog! Hope he fills out soon."
Monty has previously expressed that he has a close relationship with dogs and finds them to be "therapeutic."
The TV personality has admitted that having dogs has helped him recover from episodes of winter depression.
He has experienced periods of poor mental health dating back to the collapse of his jewellery company decades ago, and he sometimes occasionally experiences seasonal affective disorder.
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