How to use the dog food calculator
- Weigh your dog in kg.
- Pick the life stage and activity level.
- Enter the calories per cup from the food bag (look for kcal per cup). 350 is a typical dry food.
- Split the daily amount into meals and adjust by body condition.
How it is worked out
- Resting energy (RER) = 70 x weight in kg ^ 0.75
- Daily calories = RER x life stage factor
- Factors: puppy 2.0, adult neutered 1.6, adult intact 1.8, senior 1.4, active 2.2
- Cups a day = daily calories / calories per cup
Daily calories for an adult neutered dog
| Weight | Resting calories | Daily calories | Cups a day at 350 per cup |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 kg | 118 | 188 | 0.5 |
| 5 kg | 234 | 374 | 1.1 |
| 10 kg | 394 | 630 | 1.8 |
| 15 kg | 534 | 854 | 2.4 |
| 20 kg | 662 | 1059 | 3.0 |
| 25 kg | 783 | 1252 | 3.6 |
| 30 kg | 897 | 1436 | 4.1 |
| 40 kg | 1113 | 1781 | 5.1 |
| 50 kg | 1316 | 2106 | 6.0 |
Frequently asked questions
How much should I feed my dog a day?
Most adult neutered dogs need about 1.6 times their resting energy. For a 20 kg dog that is roughly 1,060 calories, or about 3 cups of a 350 calorie food.
Why does the bag say something different?
Feeding guides on bags are averages for active dogs. Neutered and indoor dogs often need less. Use the calculator as a starting point and adjust.
How do I know if the amount is right?
You should feel the ribs easily but not see them, and see a waist from above. Weigh every 2 to 4 weeks and change the amount by about 10 percent if needed.
Does this work for puppies?
It gives a starting figure. Puppies change weight fast, so recalculate every couple of weeks and follow your vet’s growth advice, especially for large breeds.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for planning only. They are not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own animal's health, diet and weight.
