How Much to Feed a Dog by Weight?

Puppies grow up and things change for both you and them as they develop strength and become adult dogs, demanding the intake of balanced protein- diets to sustain their active lifestyle. When to feed dog wet food, and how much should a dog be fed by weight? This is your guide for establishing a feeding schedule for your dog.

There are three requirements for how much to feed a dog by weight?

1. Life Stage (Age)
2. Breeds Types (Toy, Small, Medium, and Large)
3. Body Weight (lbs/kg)

You can ensure your furry companion is at their best with a specially tailored diet that takes into account their age, breed, and weight. As a carnivore, your dog needs a diet rich in animal protein to thrive. High-protein canned food is a great option to make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need. And remember, the right food also depends on their size and activity level, so consider switching to wet food for optimal health.

When To Feed Dog Food: Complete Feeding Guide

When it comes to wet food for puppies, there are two options: wet dog food and wet puppy food. It’s important to choose the appropriate puppy food to aid in the transition from mother’s milk to solid food. However, it’s important to note that puppies should not be forced to wean, as it can be harmful to their health. Our guide can provide more information on the different stages of puppy weaning.

Dog Feeding Chart by Weight: Schedule

The frequency and portion size for feeding wet food to dogs will vary depending on factors such as the individual dog’s age, health, dietary needs, and breed. Generally, most experts recommend feeding wet food to dogs two or three times a day, as opposed to just once a day. It is also a good option for both young and older dogs or those who have trouble digesting dry kibble.

For portion size, it is recommended to use a standard 8 oz measuring cup to feed approximately 1/3 cup for every 10 pounds of body weight daily. However, keep in mind that pregnant or nursing dogs may require free-choice feeding, and puppies may require 2-3 times the amount of food that adults do.

It’s also important to note that the state of health, neutering status and breed of a dog should be considered when selecting food to feed them. Always provide fresh water and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

1. Toy Dog Breeds Feeding Chart

2. Small Dog Breeds Feeding Chart

3. Medium Dog Breeds Feeding Chart

4. Large Dog Breeds Feeding Chart

Is Wet Food Bad for Dogs?

Wet food is not detrimental to dogs and can offer several benefits such as increased palatability and easier digestion compared to dry food. It also has a higher moisture content and protein level, making it a suitable option for dogs who require a high-protein diet, especially puppies and seniors.

However, as with any change in diet, it is important to consider potential health risks and allergies before making the switch. It is also recommended to vary the type of wet food to keep your dog’s appetite and avoid health issues caused by dry food containing sweet cereals.

The following are the known benefits and drawbacks of dog food that we researched, analyzed, to understand the relevance and downsides.

Benefits of Wet Dog Food Over Dry Dog Food

There are numerous advantages to consider when it comes to the nutritional value of wet dog food. Check out the following key advantages (benefits) of wet dog food:

1. Compared to kibble, wet food is often higher in protein and essential fatty acids. This is beneficial for dogs because it helps keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.
2. Wet food is also a great way to add moisture to your dog’s diet, which is important for their overall health. Some dogs may also find wet food more appetizing than dry kibble, so it’s a good option if your pet is a picky eater.
3. Wet food is a nutritious and convenient way to feed your dog, it is worth considering as it is made with fresh meat which dogs naturally crave.
4. Moist dog food is often less processed than dry food and contains fewer artificial ingredients.
5. If you’re looking for a more palatable food for dogs, wet food is the choice-maker that is likely preferred by all dog breeds.
6. Wet food contains fewer carbohydrates and more protein and fat than dry food. Because high carbohydrate intake may contribute to obesity in dogs.
7. Some wet food can help prevent and even promote weight loss, as they have no grains, or sugars, and are made with pre-cooked stew or loaf, with essential vitamins, and other ingredients for healthy eating.

Disadvantages Of Wet Dog Food Over Dry Foods

When looking for the best dog food, you will almost certainly come across both wet and dry dog food alternatives. Like dry food, there are several disadvantages of wet food:

1. Wet dog food costs more than dry dog food.
2. Because wet dog food has a shorter shelf life than dry dog food, it spoils faster, making it less convenient for pet owners and less likely to be stored for an extended period.
3. Wet dog food can cause plaque and tartar to build up on dogs’ teeth, which can be harmful to their teeth and gums in the long term, and necessitates the occasional feeding of dry kibbles.
4. Some pets may reject the taste of wet food if provided for an extended period, necessitating a change in flavours and ingredients.
5. The high water content of wet food makes it difficult to store for an extended period and spoils in days rather than weeks or months.
6. If wet food is spilled, it can be unpleasant and difficult to clean. Cleaning with a mop or steam cleaner is required.

Alan Martin

Alan Martin is a pet lover and writer with a passion for penning heartfelt pet memoirs. He is the proud owner of a dog named Joy, a cat named Milo, and a raccoon named Furby. Alan has mastered the art of pet nutrition and cares for all kinds of furry friends from his work at Pet Science. As a contributor to BestB, he's sharing his expertise with the world. His years of experience in the field have allowed him to develop a deep understanding of pet care and nutrition, and he is committed to providing reliable guides with good and bad points for each pet food and accessory so that you can make an informed decision when it comes to your furry friend's needs and care.