As a responsible dog owner, you want to make sure you're setting your pup up for a healthy, active life. Diet plays a major role in their overall wellness!
You might have spent time browsing the pet store, reading all the nutrition labels, and choosing the best one for your furball, but now there's another important decision to make: How much should you feed your pooch?
Today, we're sharing a simple dog feeding chart to help you get it right!
Factors That Affect Your Dog's Dietary Needs
Your pup's diet is as unique as they are. Even pups that are the same size and breed might have different needs, according to variable factors such as:
The type of food you serve
Your dog's breed
Your dog's weight
Your dog's activity level
The number of meals your dog eats per day
Your dog's age
That last point is especially important. Senior dogs tend to eat much less than newborn puppies, so pay close attention to your pup's habits as they enter old age.
Dog Feeding Chart 101
If you search for information about healthy portions, you'll find that opinions vary on the exact amount that your dog should be eating. Combining all of that research, here's a comprehensive breakdown to follow, based on one of the most important factors: weight.
Between 3 and 12 Pounds
Dogs in this weight range only need about 1/2 to 1 and 1/4 cups of food per day. This includes puppies and extra-small breeds, including Papillons and Pomeranians!
Between 13 and 20 Pounds
In this range, dogs need 1 and 1/3 to 1 and 3/4 cups of food daily. Breeds in this category include Miniature Poodles and Shih Tzus.
Between 21 and 35 Pounds
Dogs between 21 and 35 pounds require 1 and 3/4 to 2.5 cups of food each day. Examples include Miniature Bull Terriers and Welsh Corgis.
Between 36 and 50 Pounds
If your pup weighs between 36 and 50 pounds, they'll need 2.5 to 3 and 1/4 cups of food daily. Bulldogs and Boxers are common examples.
Between 51 and 75 Pounds
Pups weighing in at 51 to 75 pounds need 3 and 1/4 to 4 and 1/4 cups of food each day. This includes Afghan Hounds and German Shepherds!
Between 76 and 100 Pounds
Dogs in this weight range require 4 and 1/4 to 5.5 cups of food daily. Common examples include Great Danes and Akitas.
Over 100 Pounds
Does your furry companion weigh more than 100 pounds? In addition to being a human-sized snuggle bug, they're also understandably hungry!
Dogs in this category need at least 5 and 1/4 cups of food daily. Add an extra 1/3 cup for every 10 pounds over 100. Leonbergers and Tibetan Mastiffs are just two examples of these oversized pooches!
Keep Your Dog Full and Healthy
A full and satisfied pet is a happy and healthy one! The next time you fill up your pup's food bowl, keep this dog feeding chart in mind. While you might be tempted to give him an abundance of food, remember that these limits exist for a reason.
As long as you stick within the ranges and opt for nutrient-dense food, you'll be good to go! Remember to give your dog plenty of exercise and stay up-to-date on all their latest vet visits! If you need to make an appointment, you can request an appointment here.