It is important to understand how much to feed your dog daily to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding. Each breed and size of dog may have different requirements.
Speak with your local vet if you are unsure about how much to feed your dog. There are various calculation methods that take into account size, age, whether they are spayed or neutered, and how many treats they have in a day.
You can use the Pet Nutrition Alliance calculator on their website to calculate how much food your dog needs.
You will need to know:
- your dog’s weight
- its body condition score, so whether it has visible ribs showing or excess fat
- whether they are spayed or neutered
- how many calories they currently eat
- how many treats they have a day
Your veterinarian can assess your dog’s Body Condition Score (BCS), which is usually more important than weight alone when determining feeding amounts. Working dogs and sedentary pets can differ dramatically.
Treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends that adult dogs eat twice a day. It is also a good idea to speak with your vet to discuss whether your dog has any specific dietary requirements or medical conditions to consider. Breed and size also play a large role in how much food you give them.
The AKC states that puppies require more food than adult dogs. This is because they require balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus for proper bone development. Excess or deficiency in either can lead to orthopedic disease, particularly in large-breed puppies.
Puppies need small amounts of food frequently throughout the day, such as three times a day from four months old.
Benefits of feeding them three times a day include:
- giving them the right nutrients at the beginning of their life
- keeps energy levels consistent
- having easier digestion
Toy breed puppies require 4 to 6 meals per day, medium breed puppies require 3 meals per day, and large breed puppies need 3 to 4 meals per day.
The AKC states that adult dogs should eat two meals per day. You can also give them an occasional treat. Use the Pet Nutrition Alliance calculator to specifically calculate it for your dog.
Feeding your dog on a schedule can help them mimic human meal times, such as once in the morning and once in the evening. Benefits include:
- providing structure, so your dog knows when to expect food
- better monitoring of their appetite, their health, and what they eat
- avoids obesity from leaving food out or overfeeding
- makes your dog feel safe and secure; they are part of your family and thrive off routine
- you can also notice if your dog loses its appetite, pointing to particular health issues
Older
- lower cognitive dysfunction
- lower chances of gastrointestinal issues
- lower chance of dental issues
- lower chance of orthopedic issues
- lower chance of kidney and urinary issues
- lower chance of liver and pancreas disorders
More research is necessary, however.
Choosing what to feed your dog can be a minefield; many sources of information recommend all kinds of branded foods, kibbles, human foods, raw foods, and so on. Food trends can be just as confusing for dogs as they are for people, and new research frequently emerges about whether we are feeding our dogs correctly.
The best thing to do is first speak with your local vet and get their recommendation on not only the best brands and types of food, but also on the benefits and risks of feeding them a more varied diet.
The Animal Humane Society states there are many things to consider, including:
- understanding your dog’s digestive system
- ingredients
- reputation of different brands
- cost
Dogs can thrive on a consistent, nutritionally complete, and balanced diet without requiring frequent changes in food. Look for foods high in protein and healthy fats, with 18% protein being a minimum requirement.
Dogs can also be vegetarian, but you will need to provide them with the right nutrients they would otherwise get from meat, such as protein. These diets should be available only under veterinary guidance to ensure complete nutrition.
Many people feel conflicted about feeding their dogs grain-free food; past links to cardiomyopathy in dogs eating grain-free food prompted the
2025 research found that grain-free diets are not superior or more healthful for dogs than grain-based diets. The research states that the focus should be on a nutritionally balanced diet for the dog, not on eliminating certain foods or following marketing trends.
Be sure to look for certification from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), as this indicates that the food is nutritionally balanced and complete. AAFCO is a non-profit organization that sets the standards for pet food and animal feed.
If your dog shows any signs of allergies, such as an upset stomach, itching, or excessive licking, speak with your vet. You may need to buy specialized pet food.
Raw food diets
Raw diets may also benefit a dog’s digestion. Be sure to speak with your vet before introducing a raw diet to your dog, as you will need to ensure it provides adequate nutrients, including greens, and remain vigilant to prevent bacteria from entering their food or your home.
Although some people may adhere to a raw-food diet, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) advises against feeding raw foods to animals and humans for both animal and human health.
Raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance, and it is challenging to ensure every cup of food has the correct nutrient profile. Many veterinary organizations advise caution.
You should feed your adult dog 2 meals a day, and 3 if your dog is a puppy. Always speak to your vet about your dog’s feeding if you have any concerns or issues. There are many ways to do things, and no two dogs or owners are the same.