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Is 20% protein dog food enough for my 17lb lightly active dog?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 5 years and 3 months old | 17 lbs

This question is for Sybil Davis: Is the one gram of protein per pound of body weight a strict rule or can it be improvised? Right now my dogs on Natural Balance she is not getting that much protein. I would say she's getting between 12-14 grams per day. Is this enough for her? She's 17 pounds. If I fed her more of the natural balance she would be getting more protein but then she would be fat. The natural balance is 20% protein. Should I switch to something that's 25% protein? Why or why not?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 28th, 2017

Hi and thanks so much for your post this afternoon. 18-20% protein should be just fine if Chloe is a lightly active dog. 25% protein would be better for more active dogs (such as dogs that do agility or are working dogs). I hope this helps and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 19th, 2017

    Yes, 20% protein or even a little less is fine. I do not like to overfeed protein as it's hard on the kidneys, and may cause a problem late in life. As Chloe is not an active sporting dog there is no reason to feed a high protein food. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Chloe.

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