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How much kibble should my 17.5 lb dog eat to safely lose weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 5 years old | 17 lbs

Is a half a cup of kibble to little of an amount to feed my 17.5 pound dog? She's been eating 2/3 of a cup but I think she needs to lose 1 1/2- 2 1/2 pounds. This amount plus her treats and chews she gets would put her at 260 calories. She's not very active and only gets 40-60 minute walks most days. Or would you feed her 1/3 in the am. And 1/4 in the pm? This would put her at 295 calories.

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Answered By Bette Isacoff

Dog Trainer

Published on July 4th, 2017

Before cutting down on her food, I would try limiting her treats. They are loaded with fat and have relatively few nutrients. From this photo, it is apparent that she has a "waistline." which is good. If when you run your hands down her sides you can't feel her ribs, she is too heavy. (If you can see her ribs, she is too thin.) Calories are not the only factors in a dog's weight gain or loss. Remember fat, too! Spayed females may be less active and more prone to weight gain, but it doesn't have to be this way. How about throwing a ball or Frisbee for her to chase? Finding another dog for her to play with? Perhaps a dog park (well-supervised!)? Good luck with trimming Chloe down a bit!

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