Dog Food Portion Calculator

How This Tool Works

This calculator estimates daily calorie needs using a metabolic formula based on your dog's weight and activity level. The calculation uses the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) formula, which accounts for the fact that larger dogs don't need proportionally more calories - a 20kg dog doesn't need twice the calories of a 10kg dog. The formula uses body weight raised to the 0.75 power, then multiplies by an activity factor that adjusts for exercise level and daily activity.

The calculator then converts calories to approximate grams of food, assuming an average calorie density of 3.5 kcal per gram. However, different dog foods have varying calorie densities, so always check your specific food's label for exact calorie content. The result provides a starting point for feeding, but individual dogs may need adjustments based on metabolism, age, health conditions, and whether they're spayed or neutered. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions.

Formula

The daily calorie requirement is calculated using:

Daily kcal = (Weight^0.75) × 70 × Activity Factor

Activity factors: Low = 1.0, Medium = 1.4, High = 1.8

Then convert to grams:

Daily grams = Daily kcal ÷ 3.5

Note: This is a simplified model. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.

Examples

• 10kg dog, medium activity: ~700 kcal/day = ~200g food
• 25kg dog, low activity: ~1100 kcal/day = ~315g food
• 15kg dog, high activity: ~1200 kcal/day = ~340g food
• 5kg dog, medium activity: ~400 kcal/day = ~115g food

FAQ

• How much should I feed my dog?
  Daily food amount depends on your dog's weight, age, activity level, and metabolism. This calculator provides an estimate based on weight and activity. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions.
• What activity level should I select?
  Low activity: mostly indoor, short walks. Medium activity: regular walks and playtime. High activity: very active dogs, working dogs, or those with intense exercise routines. Adjust based on your dog's actual daily activity.
• How do I convert calories to grams of food?
  Most dog foods contain approximately 3.5-4 calories per gram. This calculator uses 3.5 kcal/gram as an average. Check your specific food's label for exact calorie content and adjust accordingly.
• Should I feed my dog once or twice a day?
  Most adult dogs do well with two meals per day, which helps prevent hunger and reduces the risk of bloat. Divide the daily portion into two equal meals. Puppies typically need 3-4 meals per day.
• Do I need to adjust for my dog's age?
  Yes, puppies need more calories per pound than adults, and seniors may need fewer. This calculator provides estimates for adult dogs. Consult your vet for age-specific recommendations.
• What if my dog is overweight or underweight?
  This calculator provides maintenance calories. For weight management, consult your veterinarian for a tailored plan. Overweight dogs may need 10-20% fewer calories, while underweight dogs may need more.