Tag Archives: Serving Size for Dogs

Figuring Out Dog Serving Sizes

dog serving sizesIt can be difficult to know exactly how much food to give to our dogs. Despite consumers’ concerns, pet food manufacturers actually like to suggest an overly broad range of dog serving sizes on their food packages. Blindly follow these directions, and you could be significantly overfeeding or underfeeding your dog.

What’s In the Food?

The choice of food that you give to your dog is the first of many important considerations when it comes to dog serving sizes.

Canned Foods – These usually have higher-quality protein, as well as fewer preservatives and fillers. They often have fewer calories and carbohydrates also.

Dry Foods – These are often nutritionally balanced. They have more meat byproducts, but the dogs’ chewing helps knock tartar off their teeth. Dry food also tends to be cheaper and easier to store.

Home Prepared Foods – It is important that your dog receives all its nutritional needs. Since meeting all these needs at every feeding is almost impossible, you could feed your dog home-prepared foods that vary over time.

So What are the Serving Sizes?

Each dog has its own energy needs that vary with size, age, and activity level; therefore, it is impossible to predict the exact serving size for your dog. Trial and error will help you narrow it down.

Start with the dog serving sizes listed on the food package and weigh your dog every few weeks.  Then, adjust the serving size up or down as needed to maintain your dog’s ideal weight. If your dog is energetic and keeps his figure trim, then he is probably eating the right amount.

How Often Should You Feed Your Dog?

Adult dogs should receive two servings – one in the morning and one in the evening. This will help you monitor your dog’s intake and health while regulating his routines. Just make sure to keep weighing your dog and cut back on the food if it’s getting too large.

Special Designer Dog Bowls

There are many special types of dog bowls and pet feeders that can help your unique dog’s eating habits.

Fast Eaters –  If your dog eats too fast, you can slow down his eating habits by using a dog bowl for fast eaters. Fast eating may cause dogs to choke and gag on food when their intake isn’t controlled. This is bowl designed with obstacles in the middle of the bowl, so it doesn’t allow for a direct route to the food.

Messy Dogs – Some dogs are particularly messy when it comes to eating and drinking. For the sake of cleanliness, you could try a no-splash pet bowl.

Tall Dogs – For healthier posture, tall dogs and older pets should eat from taller bowls. It is especially beneficial if the dog has joint or hip issues.

Feel free to browse our entire collection of designer dog bowls and treat jars.