Dog Food Calculator
Work out how much to feed your dog. A 50 lb neutered adult needs about 1,164 calories a day, or 3.33 cups of a 350 kcal per cup food.
How dog calorie needs are calculated
Vets use the resting energy requirement: RER = 70 x (body weight in kg) to the power of 0.75. Daily need is RER multiplied by a life stage factor: about 1.6 for neutered adults, 1.8 for intact adults, 1.0 to 1.2 for weight loss, 2 to 3 for puppies and 2 to 5 for working dogs.
A 50 lb dog has an RER of 727 kcal. A neutered adult needs 1,164 kcal a day, which is 3.33 cups of a 350 kcal per cup food, or 1.66 cups per meal.
Adjust to your dog
- Check the kcal per cup on your food bag. It varies widely.
- Weigh your dog monthly and adjust 10% up or down.
- Count treats as part of the daily calories (keep them under 10%).
This is general guidance. Ask your vet for dogs with health conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
How much should I feed my dog?
A 50 lb neutered adult needs about 1,100 to 1,200 calories a day, but it varies by dog.
How many calories are in a cup of dog food?
Typically 300 to 450 kcal for dry food. Check the label.
How many times a day should I feed a dog?
Twice a day for adults. Puppies need three or four meals.
Should I feed by the bag directions?
Bag directions are a starting point. Adjust to your dog's weight and body condition.
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