How Much Should You Feed Your Dog? A Simple Portion Guide
<p>Ask ten dog owners how much to feed and you'll get ten different answers. The truth is that the right portion depends on a few personal factors — and getting it right matters, because both overfeeding and underfeeding cause real problems.</p>
<h2>Start with your dog's ideal weight</h2>
<p>Feeding charts are based on your dog's <em>ideal</em> body weight, not their current weight if they're over- or underweight. As a general starting point, dogs eat roughly <strong>2–3% of their ideal body weight per day</strong> in fresh food — but this is only a starting point.</p>
<h2>Adjust for these factors</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Activity level:</strong> A working or highly active dog may need more; a couch companion needs less.</li>
<li><strong>Age:</strong> Puppies need more calories per kilo for growth, while seniors usually need fewer.</li>
<li><strong>Metabolism & neuter status:</strong> Spayed/neutered dogs often need slightly fewer calories.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Use the body condition check</h2>
<p>Forget the scale for a second and use your hands. You should be able to <strong>feel your dog's ribs</strong> easily without pressing hard, see a visible waist from above, and notice a tucked-up belly from the side. If the ribs are hidden under fat, reduce portions slightly; if they're sharply visible, increase them.</p>
<h2>Practical tips</h2>
<ul>
<li>Split the daily amount into two meals for better digestion.</li>
<li>Weigh food instead of using a cup — it's far more accurate.</li>
<li>Count treats as part of the daily total (aim for treats under 10% of calories).</li>
<li>Re-check portions every few weeks and adjust as your dog changes.</li>
</ul>
<p>When in doubt, your vet can help you set a precise target. Small, consistent adjustments keep your dog lean, energetic, and healthy for years. 🐶</p>
