What is the Right Amount of Feed to Give to Your Dog?

by Dr. Ron Rompala

Feeding recommendations that are listed on the bag of dog food are over-simplified to accommodate the owner wishing for simple instructions. On the other hand, recommendations that are specific for your dog requires consideration of a multitude of factors. Most recommend feeding a given amount based on the body weight of the dog. Without considering other factors, the 2 year old Doberman that is in constant motion will be fed the same as the 10 year old Lab that epitomizes a couch potato. Thus, owners must take it upon themselves to determine if the feeding recommendations are to high or too low. In addition, these feeding recommendations are not based upon dogs given extra treats such as ice cream, pretzels or cake.

How can one tell if their dog is getting the proper amount of food? Body condition is probably the best indicators. The dog is too fat if you cannot feel the ribs and the arch of the back is flatten-out. In contrast, the dog is too thin if the ribs are overly visible and stick out from the sides and if the shape edges of the backbone can be felt through the skin.

In summary, use the recommendations on the bag as a guideline and judge for yourself as to whether or not your dog needs more or less food. Additional advice may be obtained from your veterinarian, a dog breeder for a given breed or the pet food manufacturer.

© 2000. Blue Seal Feeds, Inc.

© Blue Seal Feeds – April, 2001