Too much food and your dog becomes overweight, too little and he lacks energy. But how much kibble does your dog really need per day? That depends on weight, age and how active your dog is. In this guide, you can quickly calculate it — and discover how an automatic feeder measures out the exact right portion every day.
By the SmartPaw editorial team · Published July 6, 2026 · Last updated July 6, 2026 · Facts checked by veterinarian and official nutritional sources (FEDIAF guidelines).
📌 In brief
- An average adult dog eats approximately 1.5 to 3% of its body weight in food per day.
- Use the feeding chart on the packaging as a starting point and adjust according to your dog's condition.
- Divide the daily portion over 2 meals for stable digestion.
- Puppies, pregnant and very active dogs need more; seniors often less.
- Weigh the food with a kitchen scale instead of estimating with a scoop.
How much food does my dog need per day?
A healthy adult dog needs approximately 1.5 to 3% of its body weight in dry food per day. A 10 kg dog therefore needs roughly between 150 and 300 grams per day, depending on how low or high in calories the food is and how active your dog is.
| Dog's weight | Dry food guideline/day | Number of meals |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 75 – 110 g | 2 |
| 10 kg | 150 – 200 g | 2 |
| 20 kg | 250 – 330 g | 2 |
| 30 kg | 340 – 450 g | 2 |
| 40 kg | 420 – 550 g | 2 |
These values are a guideline for moderately active dogs and vary by brand and calorie density. Always follow the table on the packaging and weigh your dog regularly.
How to calculate the correct portion?
First, check the packaging: each food lists a daily amount per weight class. Take your dog's weight, read the corresponding amount, and divide it over two meals. After 2 to 3 weeks, check their condition and adjust.
💡 Tip: Use the rib test. If you can feel the ribs easily without seeing them, your dog is fine. If you can see them clearly, give a little more; if you can barely feel them, slightly reduce the portion.
How often should a dog eat per day?
Two meals a day is ideal for most adult dogs: it keeps digestion stable and prevents hunger. Puppies up to four months usually eat three to four times a day in smaller portions.
What factors determine the amount of food?
Age, activity level, breed, and whether your dog is neutered, together determine the needs. A young, active German Shepherd burns much more than an older, neutered companion dog of the same weight.
ChromeFeeder automatic feeder (2L)
Set the exact gram portion and fixed feeding times via the app. This way, your dog gets exactly the right amount every day, even when you're not home.
View product →⚠️ Avoid unlimited supplementary feeding
Obesity is one of the most common health problems in dogs. Do not leave food in the bowl all day and include snacks in the daily portion. Read more about healthy weight in our guide to your pet's ideal weight.
Do you want to understand how nutrition affects overall health? Then also read how nutrition determines your pet's health.
Frequently asked questions
How many grams of kibble for a 10 kg dog?
Count on approximately 150 to 200 grams of dry food per day, divided over two meals, depending on the brand and activity level.
Can I combine wet and dry food?
Yes, but then reduce the amount of dry food so that the total number of calories remains the same.
How do I know if my dog is eating too much?
If you can barely feel the ribs and the waist disappears, your dog is probably eating too much. Reduce the portion and consult your vet if in doubt.
How do I divide the food if I work during the day?
An automatic feeder like the ChromeFeeder dispenses the correct portion at fixed times, even when you are not at home.
This blog is informative and does not replace veterinary advice. Sources: FEDIAF feeding guidelines for dogs and cats; veterinary nutritional advice.
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