How Much Should I Feed My Dog? A Fresh Feeding Guide
One of the most common questions dog owners ask when switching to fresh food is simple: how much should I actually feed?
The answer depends on your dog. Their size, activity level, metabolism, and overall condition all play a role. There is no single number that works for every dog, but there is a simple framework you can use to get started with confidence.
If you're new to fresh feeding, it helps to understand the bigger picture. Our complete guide to fresh feeding explains how this approach works and why more owners are making the switch.
---Start with body weight
A common starting point for fresh feeding is to base your dog’s daily intake on a percentage of their body weight.
- Inactive dogs: around 2% of body weight
- Moderately active dogs: around 2.5%
- Highly active dogs: around 3%
This gives you a baseline, but it should always be adjusted based on how your dog responds.
---Adjust based on activity and lifestyle
Two dogs of the same weight can have completely different needs depending on their lifestyle. A highly active dog will typically need more food than one that is more sedentary.
Feeding is not about hitting a perfect number — it’s about observing your dog and adjusting over time.
---Body condition matters most
Rather than focusing only on grams, look at your dog’s body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs, see a defined waist, and notice a natural tuck in their abdomen.
If your dog is gaining weight, reduce slightly. If they are losing condition, increase. Small changes make a big difference.
---Fresh feeding vs kibble portions
If you’re coming from kibble, fresh food portions may look different. Fresh food contains moisture and whole ingredients, while kibble is a concentrated dry pellet.
If you're comparing feeding approaches, understanding fresh dog food vs kibble can help explain why portion sizes vary.
---Feeding once or twice a day
Most dogs can be fed once or twice daily. Some owners prefer splitting meals, while others feed once depending on routine and preference.
Consistency matters more than frequency.
---What about treats?
Treats count toward your dog’s daily intake. If you’re using treats regularly, it’s important to factor them into your feeding amounts to avoid overfeeding.
---Dogs with sensitivities
Dogs with allergies or sensitivities may need more tailored feeding. Ingredient selection and portion control both play a role.
Learn more in our guide to the best dog food for allergies.
---Transitioning affects intake
When transitioning to fresh food, your dog’s appetite and digestion may shift slightly. This is normal as their body adjusts.
Following a structured approach to transition your dog to fresh food can help make this smoother.
---The easiest way to get it right
While the percentages above are a helpful guide, the easiest way to get accurate portions is to personalise it.
You can build your dog’s plan based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and feeding goals to get a tailored recommendation.
---Making feeding simple
Fresh feeding doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you understand the basics, it becomes intuitive and easy to maintain.
If you want a ready-to-go option, our fresh, made-to-order meals are designed to provide flexibility and consistency without the prep.
---Ready to feed with confidence?
Start with a personalised approach and adjust over time based on your dog’s needs.