Overweight Poodle

We have a 3 yr old miniature poodle mix.  Upon adoption, 1 yr ago, she weighed 13lbs but was noticeably underweight. Due to early intestinal issue after we got her, she has been on I/D moist and dry food, 2 X daily.  She now weighs 20lbs and appears either fat or 'too fluffy'. We need to know the appropriate amount of food to feed her and what is the normal weight for this type dog ( 15 inches at withers ).  This is our first small dog...we have always had labs & dals.  Help!

[Aleda M Cheng, D.V.M., C.V.A]

I/D is a food that should only be used temporarily.  It is not an adequate diet for long term feeding.  

She should probably weight about 15 or 16 pounds.  You should be able to slightly feel her ribs, but not be able to count individual ribs when she is soaking wet.  She should also have a slender waist.

You should gradually wean her off the I/D and onto something more nutritious.  A more nutritious diet would be a higher quality commercial diet that is grainfree, but contains high qualtiy meat, fish, egg, or other protein, and vegetables and fruits.  If you are unable to find a grain-free diet,  choose one in which grains are listed very low on the ingredient list.

There is a new diet medication for dogs called Slentrol that may help your dog.  You can view it online at www.slentrol.com.