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How much to feed my chubby 15lb chihuahua mix for weight loss?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 7 years and 2 months old | 15 lbs

Toki is a chihuahua/mini schnauzer mix. He’s gotten chubby, which is affecting his breathing and activity level, so I want to put him on a diet. He’s currently getting 3.5 ounces of Cesar wet dog food in the morning. Not eating all day, then he munches throughout the evening on his dry dog food. His 15 pounds right now. What’s a good amount I should be feeding him? And how much should I up that when we start walking again in the spring? Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on December 12th, 2018

The general rule is to feed 1 cup of dry food per 30lbs body weight. Using this formula, Toki should get 1/4 cup of food twice daily. Alternatively, you could feed one Cesar's portion twice daily and discontinue the dry food. Allowing him to graze in the evening may lead to overeating and weight gain.
You can adjust the amount of food based on his body weight and his BCS (body condition score). Your veterinarian can show you how to assess a BCS. Ideally, Toki should have an hourglass figure when looked at from above. From the side, he should have a pronounced abdominal tuck. He should not be rectangular. You should be able to easily feel his ribs under a thin layer of fat as well.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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