That was Joey's size when I got him, and he never needed Nutri-cal. Nutri-cal is mainly sugar and is useful for treating hypoglycemia; it is not a preventative. In fact, if given as a preventative, it can cause an attack of hypoglycemia, by producing too much insulin. Learn the symptoms of hypoglycemia; and the best method to prevent it is to free feed. Always have food and water available to your dog, and let them eat when they are hungry. If they wait too long they get hypoglycemia, and actually lose their appetite. In this case Nutri-cal, or Kara syrup can be rubbed on the roof of their mouth, and in about 30 minutes their appetite will return.
Hypoglycemia Symptoms and Treatment