How Much Dog Food Should a Dog Eat?

Feeding the right amount of high-quality food is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to support your dog’s health. Give too much, and you risk weight gain and related health problems. Give too little, and your dog might miss out on essential nutrients.

So if you’ve ever asked yourself, “How much food should I feed my dog?” you’re not alone. And you’re in the right place.

At Pets Gone Wild, we know that every dog is unique, which is why all of our dog food products come with clear feeding instructions to help you give your dog exactly what they need. You can find these guidelines right on the packaging or easily check them on our website anytime. Feeding your dog should never be a guessing game, and with us, it’s not.

Why Feeding the Right Amount Matters

Food is fuel. But too much or too little can throw your dog’s body off balance. Feeding the right amount helps your dog:

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Stay energized and active

• Support a strong immune system

• Avoid long-term health issues

Overfeeding is especially common and it comes with risks. In fact, studies show that over half of all dogs are overweight or obese, leading to problems like joint pain, heart trouble, breathing issues, and even a shorter lifespan. 

How Many Calories Does Your Dog Need?

Dogs don’t all burn calories the same way. Factors like age, size, breed, and activity level all play a role in how much food they need each day.

Here are some of the most important things to consider:

• Age: Puppies need more calories for growth and play, while seniors may need less as they slow down.

• Size: Smaller breeds burn more calories per pound than larger dogs.

• Weight: Overweight dogs should eat based on their ideal weight, not their current one.

• Lifestyle: Active dogs, working dogs, or dogs recovering from illness or surgery may need more fuel.

• Special conditions: Pregnant or nursing dogs, or those living in cold climates, often require extra calories.

  
  

Adult Dog Food Feeding Guide

Feeding adult dogs is usually the most straightforward as they’re done growing, so their nutritional needs stay fairly stable.

Use your dog’s ideal weight as your guide. If your dog is overweight or underweight, adjust portions gradually and check in with your vet. And remember, every Pets Gone Wild product includes easy-to-follow feeding instructions, right on the label and on our website, to help you get the portion just right.

Puppy Feeding Guide

Puppies are growing fast and need more calories, protein, and essential nutrients to stay healthy. But not all puppies are the same.

• Large breed puppies need special large-breed puppy formulas to support joint health and controlled growth.

• Small breed puppies often burn more energy and need calorie-dense meals.

Talk to your vet about your puppy’s ideal weight and feeding schedule. As they grow, you’ll need to adjust their portions regularly and eventually transition to an adult formula. Again, our feeding instructions are always available to help guide you.

Senior Dog Feeding Guide

Senior dogs have different needs depending on their breed, size, and overall health.

Veterinarians usually consider best dog food “senior” around:

• 7 years for giant breeds

• 8 years for large breeds

• 10 years for medium breeds

• 11-12 years for small or toy breeds

Older dogs tend to be less active, so they may need fewer calories but they often need more joint support or specific nutrients. Many senior dog foods are designed to meet these needs without overfeeding.

At Pets Gone Wild, we offer recipes that are gentle, balanced, and suited to your dog’s life stage with feeding instructions clearly laid out for easy use.

How to Know If You're Feeding the Right Amount

Feeding instructions are a great place to start but every dog is different. Here are a few ways to fine-tune portions:

• Use a feeding guide (like the one on our packaging or website!)

• Watch your dog’s body condition. They should have a visible waist and ribs that you can feel but not see

• Weigh your dog regularly and adjust portions if needed

• Check with your vet if you’re unsure or if your dog’s weight changes suddenly

  
  

Quick Tip: All Pets Gone Wild Foods Come with Feeding Instructions

We make it easy to feed your dog the right amount. Every dog food product from Pets Gone Wild includes clear feeding guidelines, both on the package and online. Whether you’ve got a tiny puppy or a senior giant breed, we’re here to help you get it right.

So if you’re not sure how much to feed, just check the label or visit our website. We’ve got your back.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your dog isn’t just about filling a bowl but it’s about giving them the right fuel to thrive. By choosing high-quality food and feeding the right amount, you’re giving your dog the gift of health, energy, and happiness.

At Pets Gone Wild, we’re proud to support pet parents with real dog food, real ingredients, and real guidance because feeding your dog should feel good, and with us, it does.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. How do I know if I’m feeding my dog too much or too little?

The best way is to watch your dog’s body condition. If you can feel their ribs (but not see them), and they have a visible waistline, you’re likely on the right track. If they seem too thin or are gaining too much weight, adjust the portion size and consult your vet.

2. Should I feed my dog once or twice a day?

Most adult dogs do best with two meals a day in the morning and evening. Puppies usually need three to four smaller meals a day, while senior dogs can stick with one or two, depending on their health and appetite.

3. What if my dog always seems hungry?

Some dogs just love to eat, but constant hunger can also be a sign of overfeeding, underfeeding, or a health issue. Make sure you're following the feeding guidelines, and check with your vet if it continues.

4. Can I use treats as part of their daily food amount?

Yes! Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. If you’re giving treats often, reduce their meal portions slightly to keep their total intake balanced.

5. Where can I find the feeding guide for Pets Gone Wild dog food?

All of our dog food products come with easy-to-follow feeding instructions printed on the packaging and you can also find them anytime on our website. We make it simple to feed your dog the right amount, every day.