Whether you’re an experienced pet owner or a new #DogMom, you might have a few questions regarding your dog and their dog food.
When it comes to the health of your furry companion, it not only matters what you feed them but how much and how often. Feeding your dog too little can cause malnourishment while feeding them too much could lead to obesity along with other health issues.
Experts and veterinarians agree that when it comes to your pet, a “one-size-fits-all” approach is not always best. Much like humans, dogs have a recommended number of calories they should consume each day. Also, like human food, dog foods vary in caloric and nutritional values.
So, when it comes to your favorite four-legged friend, how much food should you feed them?
Frequency
Puppies – Puppies tend to require smaller, more frequent feedings throughout the day. Depending on other factors such as age, size and breed, a puppy could be fed three or four times a day until they reach around six months in age.
Adults and Seniors – Unless instructed otherwise by your veterinarian, most adult dogs should be fed twice a day. Medical issues or dietary needs might require a specialized feeding schedule or dietary restrictions.
Portion Size
When addressing portion size, it’s important to check the guidelines provided on your pet’s food label and to take the following into consideration:
Size of the Breed – Large breeds require more food than smaller ones. Weight can be a good indicator of how many cups to feed your dog. The general guidelines for dry food by weight are as follows:
3-12 lbs. – 1/3 to 1 cup
13-20 lbs. – 1 to 1 1/3 cups
21-35 lbs. – 1 1/3 cups to 2 cups
26-50 lbs. – 2 to 2 2/3 cups
51-75 lbs. – 2 2/3 to 3 1/3 cups
76-100 lbs. – 3 1/3 to 4 ¼ cups
Over 100 lbs. – 4 ¼ plus ¼ cup for each 10 lbs. of body weight over 100 lbs.
Age – Puppies generally receive smaller portions of food distributed over the course of the day, while adult dogs will eat more regular portion sizes less frequently. Seniors will also have smaller food portions.
Activity Level – Some dogs are more active than others. Just like humans, this means they will burn more calories, requiring them to eat more to sustain their health and energy levels. If your dog tends to lounge around most of the day, consider slightly lowering their food intake. If they are more energetic and struggle to sit still, consider a slight increase in food.
Health – Underlying health conditions can also play a role in how much food your pet should receive each day. Always consult with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is receiving the appropriate amount of food to meet their needs.
Type of food
Finally, when deciding how much to feed your dog, it’s important to consider the type of food you’re feeding them. Different brands carry different caloric contents and nutritional values. To ensure you’re giving your pet the best variety, it’s important to be aware of their ideal weight and nutritional needs. Certain breeds may also be prone to certain ailments and health issues, requiring a specialized diet to keep them healthy.
Hi-Standard has nine recipes and blends of high quality, nutritious dog food at an affordable price. We use wholesome fresh ingredients, and all our varieties contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy hips and joints.
