Dog Health & CareDog Feeding Chart: How Much Should I Feed My Dog?

Dog Feeding Chart: How Much Should I Feed My Dog?

It’s always challenging to determine how much you should feed your dog. Bringing a dog home for the first time, getting another dog, or changes in your dog’s weight, age, or health can make you infer how much food you’re feeding at mealtimes. Complete and balanced dog food packages have feeding recommendations on the label. Even then every dog is unique, so you may still need to adjust how much and how often to feed your dog.

What Factors Impact How Much to Feed a Dog?

Several factors can impact both how much food to feed your dog, and what type of food he needs.

  • Weight: No matter dog is an animal, maintaining an ideal body condition is important for your dog’s overall health. “If your dog is not in his ideal body condition, you must necessarily adjust in what and how much you are feeding him,” says Dr. Callie Harris, DVM. You can use a weight management formula to help your dog achieve and maintain his body condition. You may work closely with your veterinarian to rule out any health concerns.
  • Activity Levels: Dog food packages typically provide feeding recommendations designed for average adult dogs with moderate activity levels. If your dog engages in high levels of daily exercise, such as frequent runs or hikes with you, he may require additional calories to support his energy demands. As Dr. Harris notes, “Dogs that are less active or overweight may need a more carefully managed daily caloric intake.”
  • Age: As your dog grows, his nutritional needs change with age. If your dog is still a puppy, he needs puppy food for growth and development. Adult dogs may benefit from senior formulas that help keep older dogs active and their minds sharp. You should work with your veterinarian to determine the type of food your dog needs based on his life stage and life style.

Once you have recognized the complete and balanced food that meets your dog’s needs, you can determine how much food to feed him. The dog feeding chart on the back of his dog food package can help guide you with problem-less dog feeding

Understanding Dog Feeding Charts

Dog feeding charts are guidelines found on dog food packaging, helping you determine the right amount to feed your dog based on their weight and age. These charts can vary slightly between brands, so you may check each brand’s specific instructions, especially when switching to a new food.

As Dr. Harris explains, “Dog feeding charts typically offer recommendations for daily intake. If you’re feeding your dog multiple times a day, you must divide the recommended amount across those meals.”

Below is an example of a typical feeding chart, similar to those you’ll see on most dry dog food packages:

Adult Dog Size (lbs) Dry Food Feeding Amount (cups)
3 to 12 1/3 to 1
13 to 20 1 to 1-1/3
21 to 35 1-1/3 to 2
36 to 50 2 to 2-2/3
51 to 75 2-2/3 to 3-1/3
76 to 100 3-1/3 to 4-1/4
100+ 4-1/4 plus 1/4 cup for each 10 lbs over 100

Note: Feeding recommendations can vary by product due to differences in calorie content and formula, so always consult the feeding chart on your specific dog food package. Because each dog’s needs are unique, it’s wise to talk to your veterinarian, particularly if your dog has special dietary needs.

How Often Should You Feed Your Dog?

You have to establish set mealtimes for dogs. Feeding at consistent times with a regular type and amount of food supports digestive health and weight management, and it can even help prevent indoor accidents. For most dogs, feeding twice a day—once in the morning and once in the evening—works well.

Why Does the Right Amount of Food Matter?

Feeding the right amount is important to your dog’s health. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain, which in turn can cause joint problems and other health concerns. Keeping portion sizes consistent and appropriate for your dog’s age, weight, and activity level helps them stay fit, active, and at their ideal weight.

If you’re interested in learning more about evaluating your dog’s body condition, ask your veterinarian to show you the Body Condition System they use.

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