Given your dog's current weight (19 lbs) and her ideal weight range (7-9 lbs), her ideal food intake would be around 1.0 lbs (0.5-0.7 lbs per day) divided into two meals.
Here's a detailed calculation to help you determine how much to feed your dog:
Step 1: Determine your dog's ideal body weight.
The ideal weight range for a small to medium-sized dog like yours is typically between 7-9 lbs. Since you mentioned she should be around that weight, we'll use 8 lbs as her ideal body weight for this calculation.
Step 2: Calculate her daily food intake based on her ideal body weight.
Multiply the ideal body weight by 2-3% to determine her daily food intake percentage:
2% of 8 lbs = 0.16 lbs (256 calories)
3% of 8 lbs = 0.24 lbs (384 calories)
So, your dog's daily food intake should be between 0.16 lbs (256 calories) and 0.24 lbs (384 calories).
Step 3: Divide the daily food intake by two.
You mentioned feeding your dog twice a day, so you should divide the daily food intake by two:
0.16 lbs / 2 = 0.08 lbs (128 calories) per meal
0.24 lbs / 2 = 0.12 lbs (192 calories) per meal
Therefore, you should feed your dog approximately 0.08-0.12 lbs (128-192 calories) of food per meal.
Keep in mind that this calculation is just a general guideline, and the actual amount you feed your dog may vary depending on her individual needs and activity level. It's also a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best feeding plan for your dog based on her specific circumstances and health condition.