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My Cavalier weighs 17.7 lbs. Is she overweight? What's a healthy diet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My female cavalier weighs 17.7 pounds and I'm not sure if this is too much weight for her. She does have a noticeable uptuck and a narrowing of the waist but she has some fatty rolls at the top of her neck that are only noticed when she is clipped. She is only eating 335 calories per day. (30 calories from treats, 20 cal from supplements) should I be using kibble as treats instead? She is only on 2/3 cup of quality kibble per day. The calories of the kibble range from 393-414 calories per cup.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 11th, 2017

Without seeing her in person, I can't say for sure if she weighs too much, but at 17.7 pounds, she is on the high end of the range of normal weight for her breed. I would not be giving her treats every day. Treats should only be given occasionally, no more than two to three times a week. I would have her seen by a vet to confirm if she is overweight for her size and frame, and the vet can discuss weight loss methods, such as increased exercise.

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