How Much Should I Feed My Dog?
Bag guidelines are broad because dogs aren't. A better estimate starts from your dog's metabolic needs: the resting energy requirement, scaled by activity, gives daily calories, which you then divide by the calories in a cup of your specific food. This calculator does that chain for you.
Weight, activity, and food matter
A lean, active working dog needs far more than a senior lapdog of the same weight, and calorie density varies enormously between foods. That's why 'two cups a day' is meaningless without knowing the food. Enter all three and you get a portion tailored to your dog, not an average one.
Body condition beats any formula
The best feedback loop is your dog's body: you should feel ribs easily and see a waist from above. If they're softening, trim the portion; if ribs are too prominent, add. And always defer to your veterinarian, especially for puppies, pregnant dogs, or any health condition — this tool is a starting estimate, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
- How many cups should I feed my dog?
- It depends on weight, activity, and the food's calories per cup — this tool estimates all three together.
- Should I split meals?
- Most adult dogs do well on two meals a day; puppies need more frequent feeding.
- Is this a substitute for my vet?
- No. Use it as a starting point and let your vet and your dog's body condition guide the final amount.