How Much to Feed

So… how much should I actually feed?

If you’re looking for a single, exact number, here’s the honest truth: there isn’t one—and that’s not a cop‑out. Dogs burn energy differently based on age, metabolism, muscle mass, activity level, stress, hormones, and even weather. What does exist is a clear starting point and a simple way to adjust with confidence.

Start here (your baseline)

Use your dog’s ideal adult weight, not their current weight.

Puppies (under 12 months): 2–3% of expected adult body weight per day

Active adults: 2–2.5% of ideal body weight per day

Average adults: 1.8–2% of ideal body weight per day

Low‑activity / seniors: 1.5–1.8% of ideal body weight per day

This total includes all food for the day: meals, toppers, chews, and training rewards.

This is your starting line, not your finish line.

What matters more than the number

Instead of obsessing over the scale, assess your dog weekly using body condition:

You should feel ribs easily with light pressure, but not see them sharply

There should be a visible waist when viewed from above

From the side, the abdomen should tuck up, not hang straight down

If your dog meets these markers, you’re feeding the right amount even if it’s different from a chart.

How to adjust (without overthinking it)

Make small changes and give the body time to respond.

Losing weight or low energy? Increase food by 5–10%

Gaining weight or feeling soft through the ribs? Decrease food by 5–10%

Re‑evaluate after 2–3 weeks, not days

Big swings cause confusion. Consistent, small adjustments create clarity.

A note about growth, training, and life changes

Feeding needs change when:

Training intensity increases

Seasons shift (many dogs burn more calories in colder months)

Hormones change (spay/neuter, maturity)

Stress levels rise (new home, new routine)

Feeding is not static—it’s responsive.

Signs You May Be Overfeeding

Waistline disappears over time
Belly starts to sag or swing when walking
Getting tired faster on walks
Ribs become hard or impossible to feel
Portion sizes slowly creep larger without noticing
Increased begging but decreased activity

Signs You May Be Underfeeding

Ribs, hips, or spine visibly sticking out
Loss of muscle tone
Low energy or poor endurance
Dull coat or excessive shedding
Always ravenous, even right after meals
No visible fat padding when you touch the ribs

How to Adjust Safely

Change portions slowly (about 10% at a time)
Give each change 1–2 weeks before adjusting again
Recheck body shape and rib feel, not just the scale

Quick Visual Check

Look from above:
Your dog should have an hourglass shape, not a rectangle.
Look from the side:
The belly should tuck up slightly toward the back legs, not hang straight or sag down.
Use your hands:
Run your fingers along the ribcage.
Think of the back of your hand:
- Knuckles = too thin
- Flat back of hand = ideal
- Palm of your hand = overweight