Dog Food Calculator
Find how much to feed your dog each day based on weight, life stage and activity.
About the Dog Food Calculator
Enter your dog's weight, life stage and the calories per cup or can of its food. The calculator gives daily calories and how much food to give.
Daily energy needs start from the resting energy requirement (RER = 70 × body weight in kg^0.75) multiplied by a factor for life stage and activity, the method used in WSAVA and AAHA nutrition guidelines. Individual needs vary by up to 50%, so adjust the amount to keep a healthy body condition score.
The formula
RER = 70 × kg^0.75; daily kcal = RER × life-stage factor
Worked example
A 44 lb (20 kg) neutered adult dog; food with 380 kcal per cup
- Resting energy: 70 × 20^0.75 = 661 kcal
- × 1.6 for neutered adults = 1,058 kcal a day
- About 2.8 cups a day, in 2 meals
Questions people ask
Should I follow the bag's guide?
Use it as a starting point; this calculation is more tailored, then adjust by body condition.
Do treats count?
Yes, keep treats under 10% of daily calories.