My dog eats less than recommended. Will she gain weight if fed more?

Question

Hello, Chloe eats slightly under 2/3 of a cup per day total. And the bag says she should be eating 1 1/4 cups per day total. I’ve had her thyroid tested a few years ago and the tests came back negative. Is this normal that she will gain weight if she eats any more? the food is royal canin for cavaliers. It’s 339 calories per cup. 25% protein, 12% fat. She is 17 pounds right now. And I just got her to lose two pounds, which I don’t want her to gain back. Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 6 years and 11 months old | 17 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Chloe's caloric requirement to keep her at 17 pounds would be 570 calories per day. If the food is 339 calories per cup then she could, in theory, eat up to 1.7 cups per day. Now, that being said, just like in people, that is just a guideline. If she is eating 1-1/4 cups per day and is maintaining then don't change it. If you increase it she will gain the weight back. Remember, you also have to factor in the calories of any treats she takes in per day so if you are feeding treats you need to be careful. If she seems very hungry with only eating 1-1/4 cups per day you could switch her to a lower calorie food and then she would be able to eat more. I hope I answered your question. If not, you are welcome to post again however, I think you should opt for a consult where we can chat back and forth to be sure you get all your questions answered. Best wishes.

My dog eats less than recommended. Will she gain weight if fed more?

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