How Much Should I Feed My Dog? A Practical Portion Guide
Feeding charts on a bag are a starting point, not an instruction. They are calculated for an average active adult, and most pet dogs in Indian cities are…
Feeding charts on a bag are a starting point, not an instruction. They are calculated for an average active adult, and most pet dogs in Indian cities are less active than that.
Start with the bag, then adjust
Feed the recommended amount for your dog's ideal weight — not its current weight if it is overweight — for two weeks, then reassess. Adjust in 10% steps.
The rib check beats the scale
Run your palm flat along the ribcage. You should feel ribs easily under a thin layer of tissue, without pressing. Seen from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. If you must press to find ribs, reduce the portion.
Split the day
Two meals for adults, three to four for puppies under six months. One large meal a day raises bloat risk in deep-chested breeds such as Great Danes, Boxers and German Shepherds.
Treats count
Treats should stay under 10% of daily calories. A single large biscuit can be a surprising share of a small dog's day — subtract treats from the meal rather than adding them on top.