How accurate is this calculator?

The calculator uses the Resting Energy Requirement (RER = 70 × weight_kg^0.75) combined with standard veterinary life-stage and activity multipliers. It provides a solid starting estimate, but individual dogs vary. Always monitor your dog's body condition score and adjust portions accordingly. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

What calorie density is used for each food type?

The calculator uses typical average values: dry kibble at 3,500 kcal/kg (roughly 350 kcal per 100 g), wet food at 1,000 kcal/kg (100 kcal per 100 g), and raw diet at 1,500 kcal/kg (150 kcal per 100 g). Premium or prescription foods may differ — check your bag's "kcal/kg" or "kcal/cup" value and adjust.

Should puppies eat more than adults?

Yes. Puppies have higher energy needs per kilogram of body weight to support rapid growth and development. The calculator applies a multiplier of 3.0 for puppies, compared to 1.6 for typical adult dogs, reflecting these elevated requirements.

How many meals per day should I feed my dog?

Most adult dogs do well on 2 meals per day. Puppies under 6 months benefit from 3–4 smaller meals. Senior dogs often tolerate 2 meals. The calculator lets you choose 1, 2, 3, or 4 meals and shows the per-meal portion size.

My dog's food bag says a different amount — which should I follow?

Bag guidelines are often based on average adult dogs and can be conservative or generous depending on the brand. Use this calculator as a cross-reference. If the two estimates differ significantly, consider your dog's body condition score — you should be able to feel (but not see) ribs easily.

Does this work for all dog breeds?

Yes. The RER formula applies to all breeds. The main variable is weight — use your dog's actual current weight, not an ideal breed weight. For neutered or spayed dogs, energy needs are roughly 10–15% lower, so consider nudging the activity level one step down.

Dog Food Portion Calculator — How Much to Feed Your Dog Daily

Summary

Enter your dog's weight, age, and activity level to get an accurate daily food portion and per-meal breakdown for dry kibble, wet food, or raw diet.

How it works

Enter your dog's current weight in kilograms or pounds.
Select the dog's life stage: puppy, adult, or senior.
Choose the activity level that best describes your dog's daily routine.
Select the food type: dry kibble, wet food, or raw diet.
Click Calculate to see the total daily portion and how to split it across meals.

Use cases

Determine the correct daily kibble amount when switching dog food brands.
Calculate raw diet portions for dogs on a BARF or prey-model feeding plan.
Adjust food quantities for a puppy that is growing quickly.
Reduce portions for an overweight or sedentary dog.
Set up a consistent feeding routine with equal meals per day.
Compare how much wet food versus dry kibble your dog needs daily.
Help a new dog owner avoid underfeeding or overfeeding their pet.
Plan food budgets by knowing the exact daily consumption in grams.

Dog Food Portion Calculator

Dog Details

Suggested Feeding Schedule

Calculation Breakdown

Summary

How it works

Use cases

Frequently Asked Questions

Dog Food Portion Calculator

Use the Dog Food Portion Calculator

Dog Details

Suggested Feeding Schedule

Calculation Breakdown

Summary

How it works

Use cases

Frequently Asked Questions