How Many Calories Does My Dog Need Each Day?
Calorie needs are one of the most important and most overlooked parts of feeding a dog. The bag's feeding guide is a start, but individual dogs can need quite different amounts. Here is how to estimate, and how to fine-tune.
Resting energy requirement
Veterinarians commonly begin with the resting energy requirement, or RER, which is the energy a dog needs to maintain basic bodily functions at rest. It is calculated as:
RER = 70 x (body weight in kg) to the power of 0.75
For example, a dog weighing 10 kg has an RER of about 394 kcal per day. A calculator or spreadsheet makes this easy.
A simpler approximation for dogs between about 2 and 45 kg is 30 x body weight in kg + 70.
Multiply for life stage and activity
Daily energy requirement is RER multiplied by a factor.
- Neutered adult: about 1.6
- Intact adult: about 1.8
- Inactive or obese-prone: about 1.2 to 1.4
- Weight loss: about 1.0 times the RER for ideal weight
- Active or working: 2 to 5 or more, depending on the work
- Puppies: around 2 to 3, decreasing as they grow
- Pregnant and nursing: see our guide to feeding pregnant and nursing dogs
These multipliers are widely used estimates. Real needs vary.
Example
A neutered adult dog of 20 kg has an RER of around 662 kcal. Multiplied by 1.6, the estimate is about 1,060 kcal per day. Check your food's calories per cup to convert to portions.
Adjust for the individual
Metabolism, breed, age, coat, climate and activity all matter. Some dogs maintain weight on far less than the formula says, and others need more. Weigh your dog every few weeks and use body condition to adjust. See our body condition score chart.
Do not forget treats and extras
Treats, chews, dental sticks, table scraps and food used for training all add calories. Keep treats to about ten percent of the daily total and reduce meals accordingly. See healthy dog treats.
Convert to portions
Find the calories per cup or per gram on your food label. Divide your dog's daily calories by the calories per cup to get cups per day, or weigh the food in grams for better accuracy. See our portion size guide.
Weight loss and gain
For weight loss, vets often feed at the calorie level for the target weight, then adjust. See our guides to helping an overweight dog lose weight and helping an underweight dog gain weight.
Life stage changes
Calorie needs change as dogs grow, age and change activity. Review portions at each stage and after neutering. See what to feed a senior dog.
When to ask your vet
If your dog is gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, or has medical conditions, ask for a calorie plan.
Why the same dog needs different amounts over time
A dog's calorie needs rarely stay constant. A young adult that runs daily may need far more than the same dog at nine years old, and a dog recovering from illness may need a different amount again. Seasonal changes also matter, since dogs that spend time outdoors in winter burn more energy to keep warm. Review portions every few months, and anytime your dog's weight, activity or health changes.
The takeaway
Use formulas as a starting point, then watch your dog. The right amount is the one that keeps your dog at a healthy weight.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories does an average dog need?
It varies widely. A moderately active adult dog might need roughly 30 times body weight in kg plus 70, but individuals differ.
Do neutered dogs need fewer calories?
Often yes, because metabolism tends to drop, and many gain weight if portions are not adjusted.
How do I know if I am feeding enough?
Check body condition and weight trend. You should feel ribs under a light layer of fat.
Do I count treats?
Yes. Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.