How much food a dog should eat per day depends on their weight, age, activity level, and the type of food. Here’s a general guide to help you figure it out:
🐕 General Daily Feeding Guidelines (for healthy adult dogs)
(based on average kibble with ~350–400 calories per cup)
- Small dogs (5–20 lbs): ½ – 1½ cups per day
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 1½ – 2½ cups per day
- Large dogs (50–100 lbs): 2½ – 4½ cups per day
- Extra-large dogs (100+ lbs): 4½+ cups per day
🐶 Puppies
- Need 2–3 times more food per pound of body weight than adults.
- Usually fed 3–4 times a day until about 6 months old.
🏃 Activity Level Adjustments
- Active dogs (working, running, hiking): May need 20–40% more than average.
- Less active/senior dogs: May need 10–20% less to avoid weight gain.
📦 Important Notes
- Always check the feeding chart on your dog food bag — calorie counts vary between brands.
- Adjust portions based on your dog’s body condition (you should feel ribs easily but not see them sticking out).
- Fresh water should be available at all times.
✅ Tip: A good rule of thumb is to monitor your dog’s weight and energy levels. If they’re gaining too much, cut back slightly. If they’re too thin or low energy, increase a bit.