Feeding your dog isn’t just about following the numbers on the back of a food bag. Every dog is unique, with individual needs based on factors like age, size, activity level, and metabolism. To ensure your furry friend thrives, it’s essential to learn how to calculate their food requirements and adjust as needed.
Step 1: Know Your Dog’s Resting Energy Requirement (RER)
The Resting Energy Requirement (RER) is the baseline amount of energy your dog needs to maintain essential bodily functions like breathing and digestion.
You can calculate RER using this formula:
RER (kcal/day) = 70 × (dog’s weight in kg)^0.75
For example, a 10 kg (22 lb) dog’s RER is:
RER = 70 × (10^0.75) ≈ 400 kcal/day
Step 2: Adjust for Activity and Life Stage
Once you know your dog’s RER, multiply it by a factor depending on their life stage and activity level:
| Life Stage/Activity Level | Multiplier |
|---|---|
| Neutered adult | 1.6 |
| Intact adult | 1.8 |
| Active/working dog | 2.0-5.0 |
| Puppy (under 4 months) | 3.0 |
| Puppy (4-12 months) | 2.0 |
| Weight loss | 1.0-1.2 |
| Weight gain | 1.2-1.5 |
For the 10 kg dog example, if they are a neutered adult:
Daily calorie requirement = RER × 1.6 ≈ 640 kcal/day
Step 3: Convert Calories to Food Amount
Check your dog food packaging for the calorie content per cup or gram. Divide your dog’s daily calorie needs by the food’s calorie content to determine how much to feed.
For example, if the food contains 320 kcal per cup:
640 kcal/day ÷ 320 kcal/cup = 2 cups/day
Step 4: Factor in Treats and Extras
Treats count! Limit treats to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For the 10 kg dog:
640 kcal × 10% = 64 kcal/day from treats
If your dog gets extra snacks, adjust their meal portions to keep their weight stable.
Why Standard Calculations Aren’t Enough
While calculations provide a good starting point, dogs have individual metabolic rates that standard guidelines can’t account for. Factors like age, activity changes, weather, and even genetics can impact how much food they need.
For instance:
- A senior dog may need less food as their metabolism slows.
- An active dog may need more food during periods of intense exercise.
The Importance of Regular Weigh-Ins
To ensure your dog is maintaining a healthy weight:
- Weigh them regularly:
- For puppies: Every 2-4 weeks
- For adults: Every 1-3 months
- Assess their body condition score (BCS):
- You should feel their ribs without excess fat.
- They should have a visible waist when viewed from above.
If your dog is gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, adjust their food intake by 5-10% and recheck in 2-4 weeks.
Tips for Monitoring and Adjusting
- Keep a Feeding Log:
Record how much food your dog eats daily, including treats and supplements. This helps identify patterns if their weight fluctuates. - Adapt to Life Changes:
- Increase food during high-activity periods or colder weather.
- Reduce portions if your dog is less active or recovering from surgery.
- Choose Quality Nutrition:
Not all dog foods are created equal. High-quality foods provide better nutrition per calorie, reducing the need for large portions. - Consult Your Vet:
If your dog has medical conditions or unique dietary needs, work with your vet to create a personalised feeding plan.
Why Tailoring Feeding Is Important
Feeding the right amount ensures your dog maintains a healthy weight, avoiding issues like obesity or malnutrition. A tailored feeding plan supports:
- Joint health: Preventing stress from excess weight.
- Energy levels: Keeping your dog active and happy.
- Longevity: Helping them live a longer, healthier life.
Need Help with Your Dog’s Diet?
At Kalmpets, we understand every dog is unique. Whether your dog needs a dietary adjustment or is experiencing behavioural changes related to feeding habits, we’re here to help.
📩 Contact us today for a consultation and let’s create the perfect plan for your pup! 🐕✨