How Much Should I Feed My Puppy? A Complete Puppy Feeding Guide
Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but it also comes with important responsibilities especially when it comes to feeding. Puppies grow fast, and giving them the right amount of food helps support healthy growth, balanced energy, and overall wellness.
If you’re unsure how much your puppy should eat, this guide explains everything you need to know from food amounts and feeding charts to schedules and when to switch to adult food.
🧠 Why Puppy Feeding Amounts Vary
Every puppy is different. The right amount of food depends on a few things:
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Expected adult size – Bigger breeds need more food than small breeds.
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Age – Younger puppies need more frequent meals.
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Activity level – Active pups need a little more food; calmer pups need less.
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Food type – Some foods have more calories, so portions may change.
Use feeding guidelines as a starting point, then adjust based on your puppy’s weight, energy, and body condition.
📊 General Puppy Feeding Chart (Daily Dry Food Guide)
Use this chart as a simple guide based on your puppy’s expected adult weight.
|
Expected Adult Weight |
1.5–3 Months |
4–5 Months |
6–8 Months |
9–11 Months |
1–2 Years |
|
3–12 lbs |
½–1 cup |
⅔–1⅓ cups |
½–1½ cups |
Adult portion |
Adult portion |
|
13–20 lbs |
½–1¼ cups |
1⅛–2 cups |
¾–1⅓ cups |
1–1½ cups |
Adult portion |
|
21–50 lbs |
½–1½ cups |
1½–2¾ cups |
1⅛–2⅓ cups |
2–3 cups |
2–4¼ cups |
|
51–75 lbs |
⅝–2⅓ cups |
1½–4 cups |
1½–3¾ cups |
2½–4¾ cups |
2⅝–6¼ cups |
|
76–100 lbs |
1–2⅔ cups |
2⅞–3¾ cups |
2⅞–6⅓ cups |
3⅞–7 cups |
5⅝–11 cups |
|
100+ lbs |
2⅔ cups + ⅓ per extra 10 lbs |
3¾ cups + ⅓ per extra 10 lbs |
6⅓ cups + ⅓ per extra 10 lbs |
7 cups + ⅓ per extra 10 lbs |
11 cups + ⅓ per extra 10 lbs |
Always check your puppy food bag for calorie-based feeding instructions.
🕒 How Many Times a Day Should You Feed a Puppy?
How often you feed your puppy matters.
Under 6 months old
✔️ 2–4 meals a day
✔️ Some small breeds may need more meals early on to avoid low blood sugar.
6 months and older
✔️ Switch to 2 meals a day
✔️ Keep feeding times consistent (morning and evening)
Regular meals help with digestion, steady energy, and easier house-training.
📆 When to Switch to Adult Dog Food
Puppies won’t stay on puppy food forever. The right time to switch depends on their size:
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Small breeds: 9–12 months
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Medium breeds: Around 12 months
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Large breeds: 18–24 months
Signs your puppy may be ready:
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Leaving food in the bowl
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Slower growth
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Gaining weight more easily
Switch slowly over 7–10 days by mixing adult food with puppy food.
🎯 Extra Tips for Healthy Puppy Feeding
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Use a measuring cup so you know the exact amount.
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Your puppy should have a visible waist and a small belly tuck.
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Treats should be less than 10% of daily calories.
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Adjust food amounts if you mix wet and dry food.
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Watch for fast weight gain — it can strain growing joints.
🛒 Helpful Puppy Supplies
Using the right feeding and training tools can make daily care easier.
You can check out puppy items like poop bags, training pads, and other essentials here:
👉 Pet N Pet Puppy & Dog Essentials
❤️ Final Thoughts
Feeding your puppy the right amount helps them grow into a healthy, active adult dog. Follow the chart as a starting point, keep a steady feeding schedule, and adjust based on your puppy’s needs.
If you’re unsure about portions or your puppy’s growth, your veterinarian can guide you.
With the right routine and care, your puppy will thrive during these early stages of life.